Epiglottitis – Diagnosis and Treatment
Diagnosis
After stabilizing the patient’s airway and oxygen levels, clinicians use several tests to find the cause of symptoms like severe sore throat, high fever, drooling, and trouble swallowing.
Common Tests Include:
| Test Name | Purpose | Possible Results |
|---|---|---|
| Flexible Scope Examination | Clinicians gently pass a thin, flexible tube with a light through the nose to check the throat. A numbing spray may help reduce discomfort. | Shows swelling or redness linked to epiglottitis. |
| X-rays of Neck or Chest | Clinicians use images of the neck or chest area, which can support a diagnosis but are not always required. | May reveal a โthumb sign,โ which means an enlarged epiglottis. |
| Swabs and Blood Samples | Clinicians collect cells from the throat with a soft swab and draw blood from a vein. | Tests for bacteria such as Haemophilus influenzae type b and finds any infection in the blood, called bacteremia. |
Clinicians watch for warning signs like a muffled voice, stridor, and difficulty breathing. Early detection is key, especially when symptoms are severe.
Treatment
Clinicians first support breathing when treating epiglottitis. They may deliver oxygen by a mask to increase oxygen levels.
If breathing remains difficult, they may perform intubation by inserting a breathing tube through the nose or mouth into the windpipe and keeping it in place until the airway is less swollen.
In rare and urgent cases, a healthcare provider may create an emergency airway. This may involve a procedure such as a needle cricothyroidotomy, where a needle is placed into the trachea to help air pass through.
In some situations, a tracheotomy may be performed to secure the airway if intubation is not possible.
| Breathing Support | Description |
|---|---|
| Oxygen Mask | Gives extra oxygen through a fitted mask. |
| Intubation | A tube in the windpipe maintains an open airway. |
| Needle in Trachea | Rapid emergency pathway for air when other methods fail. |
| Tracheotomy | Surgical opening in the neck for severe airway obstruction. |
Managing the Cause of Infection
Bacterial infection, such as from Haemophilus influenzae, often causes epiglottitis. Quick treatment is important.
Doctors usually start with a broad-spectrum antibiotic through an IV to fight off many types of bacteria before identifying the exact cause.
When lab results identify the specific bacteria, they may switch the medicine to better target the infection.
Other antibiotics may be used based on the bacteria involved, depending on what the doctor finds.
The main goal is to remove the infection while keeping the airway safe. In all cases, clinicians start antibiotics as soon as possible to lower the risk of serious problems.
Getting Ready for Your Visit
If your healthcare provider suspects epiglottitis, they start care right awayโthere is usually no time to plan ahead.
You may see the first healthcare provider in the emergency room. Vaccination, such as the Hib vaccine, helps lower the risk of this condition.
Because epiglottitis is a medical emergency, your role may be limited during the early stages of care. However, if time allows or you are helping a loved one, try to bring:
A list of any symptoms you or the person had before the emergency, such as fever, sore throat, trouble swallowing, or breathing difficulty.
Information about recent illnesses, exposures, or vaccinations.
A list of current medications, allergies, or chronic health conditions.
Let hospital staff know if there is a history of airway issues or past severe infections. Itโs helpful to remain calm and follow instructions from the care team.
After the immediate crisis, ask questions about diagnosis, treatment steps, and any home care needed once the patient is stable.
If the patient recovers at home, you may receive guidance about signs to watch for and when to seek help again.
