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.