In the back of your throat, there is a small flap of skin that hangs down. This little anatomical structure is known as the epiglottis. If you take a look in a mirror, open you mouth really wide, and say “AH!”, you can see your epiglottis. Like just about every organ in the body, the epiglottis can become infected. Infections of the epiglottis are know (more appropriately) as eppiglottitis. These infections can lead to swelling and even blockage of the airway if they are not treated quickly and appropriately.
Epiglottitis can have a few different causes. The most common cause of epiglottitis is from an infection by a bacteria known as Haemophilus influenzae. It should be noted that this is NOT the same microbe that causes the flu. H influenzae is a bacteria, where the organism that causes the flu is a virus (actually, there are several viruses – but that’s not important here).
Fortunately, there is a vaccine against H. influenzae. This vaccine is generally given to children at a young age, and has done wonders in dropping the rate of eppiglotitis infections. This is one more reason to get your children properly vaccinated.
There are a few other causes of eppiglotitis. The microbes that can also cause this infection include varicella zoster (the virus that also causes chickenpox), streptococcus, and candida (a fungus). None of these causes are anywhere near as common as H. influenzae.
Damage to the epiglottis, usually in the form of trauma or a burn, can predispose a person to getting this infection. This cause of the infection can happen even if a person has been vaccinated, as there are other bacteria and viruses which can settle in if there is damage to the epiglottis.
The symptoms of epiglottitis can be dramatic and severe. This is a condition that must be treated quickly, as the inflammation can rapidly block the airway – making it impossible for a person to breathe.
The most common symptoms include a sore throat, excessive drooling, pain (usually in the neck or throat area), wheezing, difficulty breathing, and fever. Some people will have a hard time drinking or eating as well.
The most important step in the immediate management of a eppiglottitis infection is to maintain the airway so that the person can breathe. In severe cases, a tube can be inserted down the persons throat, allowing the doctors to manually provide oxygen to the patient. If the epiglottis is so swollen that a tube cannot get past it, the doctor can do a tracheotomy. This is a procedure where a hole is cut in the neck below the epiglottis. A tube is then fed in to this hole, allowing the person to breathe.
Once the doctor has proper control of the airway, medical management of the infection can begin. This typically involves the use of antibiotics. If the cause of the infection is a fungus or virus, there are specific medications used to deal with those bugs.
If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms related to eppiglottis, or if there is any problem breathing, call a doctor or emergency services immediately. This infection is a serious medical emergency. If there is any question that a person may not be able to breathe, it is vital to call for help at once.
Source: Medical school and experience as a practicing doctor.
