Word parts
What it means
Usually a bacterial infection. Once mostly a childhood disease caused by Haemophilus influenzae type b, it is now much rarer thanks to the Hib vaccine and is seen in adults too. The swollen epiglottisep-ih-GLOT-isA leaf-shaped flap of cartilage at the back of the throat that covers the windpipe during swallowing.epi- upon, overglott/o the opening of the larynxFull entry can suddenly block the airway, so it is an emergency. A child may sit leaning forward in the tripod positionTRY-pod puh-ZISH-unA sitting position in which the person leans forward with the hands or elbows resting on the knees or on a table.Full entry , drool, have trouble swallowing and make a high-pitched sound breathing in (stridorSTRY-derA high-pitched, harsh sound made while breathing, usually heard when breathing in.Full entry ).
For the nurse
Do not look in the throat with a tongue depressor or take a throat swab, which can trigger complete blockage. Keep the child calm and upright, with a parent, and have emergency airway equipment ready.
Related terms
stridor
A high-pitched, harsh sound made while breathing, usually heard when breathing in.
-itis
A word ending that means inflammation.
airway
The passages that carry air into and out of the lungs, from the nose and mouth to the smallest air tubes.
epiglottis
A leaf-shaped flap of cartilage at the back of the throat that covers the windpipe during swallowing.
croup
A viral infection of the voice box, windpipe and large airways, mostly in young children.
tripod position
A sitting position in which the person leans forward with the hands or elbows resting on the knees or on a table.