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Epiglottitis - Treatment

Alternative Names

Supraglottitis

Treatment:

The patient will be admitted to the hospital, usually an intensive care unit (ICU).

Treatment may include methods to help the patient breathe, including:

  • Moistened (humidified) oxygen
  • Breathing tube (intubation)

Other treatments may include:

  • Fluids given through a vein (by IV)
  • Antibiotics to treat the infection
  • Anti-inflammatory medicines called corticosteroids to decrease throat swelling

Expectations (prognosis):

Epiglottitis can be a life-threatening emergency. However, with proper treatment, the outcome is usually good.

Complications:

Spasm may cause the airway to close abruptly. In this case, death follows within minutes.

The airway may become totally blocked, which could result in death.

Calling your health care provider:

Call the local emergency number (such as 911) if your child has symptoms of epiglottitis, including sudden breathing difficulties, excessive drooling, and irritability.

  • Reviewed last on: 6/3/2008
  • Daniel B. Hoch, PhD, MD, Assistant Professor of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Department of Neurology, Massachusetts General Hospital. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

References

Sobol SE. Epiglottitis and Croup. Otolaryngol Clin North Am. June 2008; 41(3); 551-566.

Alcaide ML. Pharyngitis and epiglottitis. Infect Dis Clin North Am. June 2007; 21(2): 449-69, vii.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
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