Epiglottitis: Care Instructions

Your Care Instructions

Epiglottitis is pain and swelling of the epiglottis. The epiglottis is a flap of tissue at the back of the throat. It closes when you swallow to prevent food and fluids from getting into the trachea, or windpipe. The disease can be life-threatening. This is because the epiglottis can quickly block the windpipe and make breathing difficult.

The cause of epiglottitis is an infection from viruses or bacteria. Epiglottitis begins suddenly. You may be very sick and have a fever and trouble breathing. Your voice may be muffled, and you may have swallowing problems and may drool.

Follow-up care is a key part of your treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if you are having problems. It's also a good idea to know your test results and keep a list of the medicines you take.

How can you care for yourself at home?

Take your antibiotics as directed. Do not stop taking them just because you feel better. You need to take the full course of antibiotics.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think you may need emergency care. For example, call if:

You have severe trouble breathing or swallowing.

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

You have new or worse symptoms of infection, such as:
- Increased pain, swelling, warmth, or redness.
- Pus draining from the area.
- A fever.

Watch closely for changes in your health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

You do not get better as expected.

Where can you learn more?

Go to http://www.healthwise.net/patientEd

Enter Y216 in the search box to learn more about "Epiglottitis: Care Instructions".

Current as of: October 27, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

Current as of: October 27, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

The Health Encyclopedia contains general health information. Not all treatments or services described are covered benefits for Kaiser Permanente members or offered as services by Kaiser Permanente. For a list of covered benefits, please refer to your Evidence of Coverage or Summary Plan Description. For recommended treatments, please consult with your health care provider.