Epiglottitis is defined as what?

• A. Inflammation of the Epiglottis
• B. Obstruction of the airway due to foreign body
• C. Inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa
• D. Inflammation of the trachea

Answer: (A)

Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis, the small flap at the base of the tongue that covers the airway during swallowing. This swelling narrows the airway and can lead to rapid, potentially life-threatening obstruction, which is why it’s treated as an emergency. In patients, you may see fever, a muffled or “hot potato” voice, drooling, painful swallowing, and a preference to sit up or lean forward to ease breathing. In the field, avoid probing the throat, provide oxygen, and be prepared for possible airway management with rapid transport. The other options describe inflammation of different parts of the airway or obstruction from a foreign body, not the epiglottis itself.