When you’re a parent or caregiver, there is no higher priority than the health and safety of your little one. And if you’re facing a rare condition or severe, unexplained symptoms, it’s natural to want to understand what’s going on and know the appropriate steps to take.
Although it’s much less common today thanks to modern vaccines, epiglottitis is a rare but potentially life-threatening condition that represents a serious medical emergency. This is why prompt recognition and immediate treatment are so essential.
This guide will help you understand what epiglottitis is, what symptoms to watch for, and how to care for a child who is diagnosed with it. At Care Options for Kids, we want to help families be as prepared as possible to support children with confidence and compassion.
What Is Epiglottitis in Children?
Epiglottitis is an inflammation of the epiglottis, a small flap of tissue at the base of the tongue that helps prevent food and liquid from entering the windpipe when we swallow. In healthy children, the epiglottis moves freely and silently, playing its role without notice. But when it becomes swollen and inflamed, it can block the airway, making it hard for a child to breathe.
Epiglottitis in children can develop quickly, sometimes in just a few hours. It’s considered a medical emergency because the swelling can cause airway obstruction, leading to difficulty breathing or even suffocation if not treated promptly.
How Common Is Epiglottitis in Children?
Epiglottitis in children is relatively rare today. Before the introduction of the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine, epiglottitis was more frequently diagnosed in children between the ages of two and seven. Since widespread vaccination began, the incidence has dropped significantly in countries with strong immunization programs.
But the condition hasn’t been completely eradicated. Cases still occur, particularly in children who are unvaccinated or have weakened immune systems. That’s why it’s still important to recognize the signs and understand the urgency of this condition.
Risk Factors for Epiglottitis in Children
There are several risk factors that may increase the chances of a child developing epiglottitis:
- Lack of vaccination: Children who haven’t received the full Hib vaccine series are at higher risk.
- Age: Although it can occur at any age, children between two and seven are the most susceptible.
- Weakened immune system: Conditions that affect immune function can increase vulnerability to infections.
- Existing respiratory infections: In rare cases, an upper respiratory infection such as RSV may lead to epiglottitis.
If your child falls into any of these categories, staying alert to possible symptoms becomes even more important.
Symptoms of Epiglottitis in Children
Symptoms of epiglottitis often come on suddenly and can escalate quickly. Common signs include:
- High fever
- Sore throat
- Difficulty swallowing
- Drooling, because swallowing is painful or difficult
- Hoarse or muffled voice
- Stridor, which is a harsh, high-pitched sound during breathing
- Anxiety or restlessness
- Sitting in a tripod position, leaning forward with the chin out and mouth open
If your child shows any of these symptoms, especially drooling and difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical care immediately. Do not try to examine their throat at home, as this could trigger more severe airway obstruction.
Causes of Epiglottitis in Children
The most common cause of epiglottitis in children used to be the Hib bacteria. Thanks to vaccines, this is much less common now, but Hib can still be a cause in unvaccinated children. Other possible causes include:
- Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus pyogenes, which are two types of strep bacteria
- Staphylococcus aureus, including MRSA
- Fungal infections, especially in immunocompromised children
- Injury to the throat from hot liquids or trauma
- Inhalation of harmful chemicals
Understanding the cause can help guide treatment, but immediate airway protection is the top priority.
How Is Epiglottitis Diagnosed?
When a child arrives at the hospital with symptoms of epiglottitis, doctors will focus on ensuring the airway remains open before doing any in-depth tests. Once the child is stabilized, diagnosis may include:
- Visual examination using a flexible camera, performed by a specialist in a controlled environment
- Neck X-rays or imaging to see the swollen epiglottis
- Blood tests and throat cultures to identify the bacteria or virus involved
Because the condition is so serious, doctors often begin treatment before all test results are back.
Treatment for Epiglottitis in Children
Once epiglottitis is suspected or diagnosed, immediate medical care is essential. Epiglottitis in children is considered a medical emergency because of the potential for rapid airway obstruction. Treatment almost always requires hospitalization, often in an intensive care setting, to ensure close monitoring and access to emergency interventions.
The primary goals of treatment are to secure the airway, reduce inflammation, and eliminate the underlying infection. A coordinated team of specialists — typically including pediatricians, ENT doctors, anesthesiologists, and critical care staff — will work together to stabilize and care for your child.
Treatment may include:
- Airway management: The most urgent priority is making sure your child can breathe. This may involve intubation, where a flexible tube is carefully placed into the windpipe to keep the airway open. If swelling is too severe to allow safe intubation, a tracheotomy may be performed, creating a direct airway through a small incision in the neck. These procedures are done with great care to minimize distress and ensure safety.
- Antibiotics: Since most cases are caused by bacterial infection, broad-spectrum intravenous antibiotics are started immediately — even before lab results are back. Once the specific bacteria is identified, the medication may be adjusted to target it more precisely. This helps stop the infection from spreading and reduces inflammation in the throat.
- Fluids and oxygen: Children with epiglottitis are often dehydrated and may have low oxygen levels. Intravenous fluids help maintain hydration and support circulation, while supplemental oxygen ensures the child is getting enough air during recovery. In some cases, oxygen may be delivered through a mask or through the breathing tube if intubated.
- Steroids: Intravenous (IV) corticosteroids are sometimes administered to help reduce swelling in the epiglottis and surrounding tissues. While they don’t treat the infection itself, they can speed up the reduction of airway inflammation, making breathing easier and recovery faster.
Most children who receive prompt and proper treatment for epiglottitis in children recover fully within a few days to a week. Early medical intervention greatly reduces the risk of complications and ensures the best possible outcome.
Possible Complications
Without timely treatment, epiglottitis in children can lead to severe complications, including:
- Complete airway blockage
- Respiratory failure
- Sepsis, a dangerous spread of infection throughout the body
- Death
This is why rapid recognition and emergency care are critical. With treatment, these risks can be greatly reduced.
Preventing Epiglottitis in Children
The most effective way to prevent epiglottitis in children is through vaccination. The Hib vaccine is part of the standard immunization schedule for infants and young children and has been instrumental in reducing cases worldwide.
Other steps you can take include:
- Keeping your child away from individuals with respiratory infections
- Teaching good hygiene, like handwashing and covering coughs
- Avoiding exposure to smoke and environmental irritants
If your child has a health condition that compromises their immune system, speak to your pediatrician about additional precautions.
Caring for a Child with Epiglottitis
Caring for a child who has been hospitalized for epiglottitis in children can be emotionally overwhelming. During recovery, your support and presence mean everything to your child. Here are some ways to help:
- Stay calm and reassuring to ease their anxiety
- Encourage rest and fluid intake as they recover
- Follow all discharge instructions carefully, including finishing the full course of antibiotics
- Schedule and attend follow-up appointments with your pediatrician
Recovery typically takes several days to a week, depending on the severity of the infection and the treatment required.
The Benefits of Home Health Services
After being discharged from the hospital, some children may benefit from home health services. These services can provide:
- Skilled nursing care to monitor your child’s breathing and vital signs
- Respiratory care, if longer-term breathing support is needed
- Support with medications, especially if your child was discharged with complex prescriptions
- Education for you and your family about warning signs and how to promote healing at home
- Emotional support from trained pediatric home health professionals
Having skilled professionals visit your home can ease the transition from hospital to recovery and give you peace of mind knowing your child is in good hands.
Helping Children and Families with Epiglottitis
While epiglottitis in children is rare, it remains a condition that requires immediate medical attention and awareness. As a parent or caregiver, understanding the signs, symptoms, and steps to take can make all the difference in ensuring a safe and speedy recovery.
Stay up to date with your child’s vaccinations, trust your instincts when something seems wrong, and never hesitate to seek emergency care if your child has trouble breathing or swallowing. Your vigilance, love, and proactive care are the strongest tools in protecting your child’s health and well-being.
By being informed and prepared, you’re taking an essential step toward keeping your child safe from serious conditions, including epiglottitis.
Schedule Your Child’s Care Assessment Today
At Care Options for Kids, we understand the unique challenges of caring for a child with severe health conditions. Our dedicated team of pediatric home health care nurses are here to support your family with compassionate, expert care tailored to your child’s needs. Contact us today to schedule an assessment and learn how we can help you navigate this journey with confidence and care.
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