What Causes Swelling Of The Epiglottis?

Posted on Mon, 19 May 2014

Question: Hi, I am in my 20's and a female. I am having trouble with what feels to be swelling of the epiglottis. Right now, I only feel the discomfort and am starting to have a little discomfort swallowing. This is the second time I have had the feeling of swelling in my throat. The first time it happened, the doctors at the ER could not find anything wrong, except the possibility of a infection. My family doctor told me it was in my head and stemmed from stress and anxiety from being in nursing school. I actually saw my epiglottis for the first time in my life 2 days after the first incident. I have seasonal allergies, especially to dust and mold. I have never had this type of feeling/reaction. Should I be concerned? Can stress and anxiety cause swelling?

Answered by Dr. Deepashree (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
throat infection/hypertrophied tonsils.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thanks for your query.

Epiglottis is located deep down in the laryngeal inlet. It cannot be seen without larynogoscope. Further epiglottic swelling typically present with breathing difficulty and severe throat pain.

Based on your description, I don't feel this is related to epiglottic swelling. It may be congestion in your throat with or without hypertrophied tonsils. Tonsil can cause swollen feeling in the throat.

Stress and anxiety will cause throat discomfort, spasm in throat, but not swelling.
This is not related to your allergy.

I suggest you to meet your ENT specialist and get checked. In the interim, you should start salt water gargles and antiinflammatory medicines.

Hope I have answered your query.
Pleased to help you further in need.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad

Follow up: Dr. Deepashree (12 hours later)

I understand, except that my tonsils and adenoids were removed several years ago. The thing I can see in my throat looks like a smaller version of my tongue.

Thank you for your advice and I will try to get in with an ENT soon.

Answered by Dr. Deepashree (10 hours later)

Brief Answer:
Physical examination is welcome...

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

If adenoids and tonsils are removed and you see smaller version of your tongue , then it might be from the epiglottis. But since your symptoms are atypical physical examination by ENT will be extremely helpful.

Pleased to help you further.

If you don't have any other Queries, please close this query.

Thank you.

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad