b'EpiglottitisChapterThe epiglottis is the flap like structure situated in the throat above the vocal cords. The epiglottis automatically closes over the opening of the trachea (windpipe) when we swallow food or drink. It will then automatically open to allow us to breathe. Without the epiglottis, food and fluid would go into the lungs instead of the stomach.Epiglottitis is an infection of the epiglottis which is generally caused by the bacterial organism Haemophiles Influenza B. This inflammation can develop quickly and in extreme cases can totally obstruct the upper airway, preventing the child from being able to breathe.This condition can occur in children normally between the age of 2 to 7. The most common age is 4 particularly if the child is suffering from a respiratory tract infection. The condition normally develops rapidly, within about an hour whereas croup generally develops over several hours or even days.There is evidence of an increase in cases of epiglottitis in Australia.How to RecogniseThe child appears lethargic, unwell and usually has a high temperature.Drooling but no cough.There is often an expiratory snore sound (may also be inspiratory). It is a softer sound than croup. The child will be reluctant to eat, drink or even talk because their throat is so sore.How to ManageDo not look in the childs throat under any circumstancesbecause this may cause the airway to suddenly obstruct. Gently sit the child up leaning slightly forward. The epiglottis may fall back and obstruct the airway if the child is lying flat.Rest and reassure the child.Call Ambulance 000.Closely monitor.A child with epiglottitis needs careful, gentle supervised transport to hospital.The childs airway may obstruct at any time.In hospital, a special tube (Endo tracheal tube) is inserted into the airway to allow the child to breathe easier. The tube will normally stay inserted for about 8 hours to allow antibiotics to take effect and until the swelling of the airway subsides.Medical professionals often have difficulty diagnosing and differentiating between croup and epiglottitis. A common reason is because the high pitched noisy cough associated with croup is not always present in some children who have croup. Both croup and epiglottitis are serious in young children because of the narrowing of the airway.226 Common Illness and Ailments'