Epiglottis is a piece of cartilage at the back of the tongue that closes the windpipe when swallowing. Epiglottitis is an acute inflammation of the epiglottis that can cause airway obstruction. Epiglottitis is sometime preceeded by an upper respiratory infection and may immediately progress to complete upper airway obstruction within 2 to 5 hours.

It usually attack children between ages 2 and 8. Epiglottitis can be fatal if the patient is not treated immediately.

Causes of Epiglottitis:

• Usually, Hemophilus influenzae type B
• Pneumococci
• Group A streptococci

Signs and Symptoms:

• Laryngeal obstruction (principal symptom)

• High fever, Sore throat, Irritability, Restlessness
• Abnormal breathing sound
• Drooling (excessive salivation)
• Typical posture. The child attempting to relieve severe respiratory distress may hyperextend his neck, sit up, and lean forward with mouth open, tongue protruding, and nostrils flaring as he tries to breathe.
• Edematous bright-red epiglottis. Throat examination should not be done if obstruction is severe because complete airway obstruction can occur.

Treatments of Epiglottitis:

Emergency endotracheal intubation or a tracheotomy and should be carefully monitored in an intensive care unit. Tracheotomy is a medical procedure where an incision is made in the front of the patient's neck and a breathing tube (trach tube) is inserted through a hole, called a stoma, into the trachea (windpipe). Rather than breathing through the nose and mouth, the patient will now breathe through the trach tube.

The following natural remedy is also recommended for faster healing and prevention infections:

Bee propolis - natural and effective antibiotic. It is helpful in preventing infection.

Garlic-thyme - helps to strengthen the immune system and respiratory system.

Beta-carotene - potent antioxidant, it helps resist infections, repairs and maintains body tissue.

Licorice - anti-inflammatory, it help stimulates the formation of antibodies and immune system defenses.

Turmeric Herb - another powerful antibiotic

Aloe Heat lotion - contain a warming agent that can help relax the muscle.