Causes
Epiglottitis is caused by a germ (Haemophilus influenzae) that causes inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis. The epiglottis normally sits at the top of the windpipe and prevents food and liquid entering the windpipe during swallowing. When it’s inflamed and swollen, the epiglottis blocks air flow, making it hard to breathe and causing obvious distress.
Symptoms
The onset of epiglottitis is very quick. Unlike croup, where children will have symptoms of a cold before developing a barking cough and stridor, epiglottitis develops rapidly in children who have previously been perfectly well. Within a few hours a child can be desperately sick.
Your child might look toxic, pale and unwell, with saliva drooling from his open mouth. He might have trouble swallowing. You might hear a soft, snoring noise when he breathes, and he’ll usually sit well forward, refusing to lie down because it causes him further respiratory distress. Your child might be irritable and restless. He might feel hot, and you might find it very hard to help him feel better.
Epiglottitis is a medical emergency. If you suspect your child has it, see a doctor immediately. Do not delay – it’s a matter of life and death. Take your child to a hospital with an intensive care unit, if possible. If you’re alone or have a long way to travel, call an ambulance.
Tests
There’s no test for epiglottitis. The diagnosis of epiglottitis is made on the basis of a very rapid onset of symptoms in a previously well child.
In fact, no investigations or procedures (such as taking blood, measuring temperature and so on) should be performed if epiglottitis is suspected, because they might distress your child and bring on obstruction of the windpipe.
Treatment
If you suspect your child has epiglottitis, take her immediately to a hospital that has an intensive care unit. A breathing tube is usually inserted to help your child breathe, and your child will be given intravenous antibiotics.
Prevention
You can prevent epiglottitis by having your child vaccinated against Haemophilus influenzae. This is commonly called the Hib vaccine, and is now available in Australia. If your child is fully immunised it will prevent him from contracting this and other potentially fatal diseases.
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