Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is the inflammation of the epiglottis, the small flap that closes over the windpipe during swallowing. This swelling can obstruct the windpipe, leading to breathing difficulties, even outside of swallowing. It is a medical emergency that requires immediate hospital treatment. The primary symptom of epiglottitis is severe difficulty in breathing, which typically develops rapidly. In children, they may resist lying down and often adopt a forward-leaning position with their neck extended while seated. Other symptoms you or your child might experience include: