Epiglottitis Is Caused by Cartilage

Epiglottitis is caused by cartilage covering the trachea, or windpipe, and is sometimes also called croup syndrome. In is most common in children that are between two and six years of age and usually is caused by the bacterium Haemophilus influenzae, although other bacteria or viruses may cause it. Epiglottitis is rather rare, although it can even occur in adults, and because of its rarity it is often overlooked as a possible diagnosis even if the signs and symptoms are present. For newborn babies, it can be quite devastating. In the United States, the incidence of epiglottitis is on the decline, but those that get the disease will find that it can have a rather rapid progression. The main reason for the decline in the number of cases, however, is the fact that the Hib vaccine has become routine in the vaccination schedule of all children. This occurred in the late 1980s and has helped greatly, although not all children are immunized, and epiglottitis can occur before immunization takes place as well. Even though many people are not that aware of epiglottitis, it can be life threatening quite quickly. It begins with a very sore throat and a high fever. Once this occurs, the epiglottis, which is located at the back of the tongue and works to close off the windpipe when someone swallows, can swell, and this can severely hamper the breathing of that individual. As the epiglottis continues to swell, breathing can become difficult rather rapidly, and respiratory distress can occur. In adults, the condition is still very dangerous, but they are capable of indicating that they need help. Newborns cannot do this, and any signs or symptoms of epiglottitis require immediate treatment, usually with hospitalization in the intensive care unit (www.nlm.nih.gov,2004).

The larynx is a framework of muscle, mucous membranes, and cartilage that forms the entrance to the windpipe. The epiglottis works like a lid to keep food and drink from getting into that windpipe, which could be very serious. When someone swallows, the epiglottis closes, sealing off the larynx, which is why individuals cannot swallow and breathe at the same time. When no swallowing is occurring, the epiglottis is lifted slightly so that breathing can take place, but when it becomes swollen it is like a permanent state of swallowing, and air cannot get past. If it is only slightly swollen, the infant or child can still breathe, but with some difficulty. If it becomes severely swollen, however, breathing is stopped and death can come within minutes without treatment. The bacteria that most commonly causes epiglottitis is also contagious, so care must be taken around anyone that has the problem, so that others in the family and work environments do not contract it (www.cnn.com,2004).