Epiglottitis

Critical

⚠️ Check: Is the area safe for you to approach?

Avoid anything that upsets the person — crying or gagging can close the airway.

Call 112 now. Sit upright. Stay calm. Nothing in mouth. Do not look in throat.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT use a tongue depressor, flashlight exam, or finger in throat — can trigger complete obstruction.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT give water, medicine, or food by mouth.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Do NOT transport in a lying position in a private car if avoidable — ambulance has airway equipment.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Say: "Suspected epiglottitis — drooling, cannot swallow, stridor. Need airway emergency."
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Give age, fever level if known, and current breathing status.

Any suspected epiglottitis is an immediate airway emergency.

DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — Epiglottitis requires hospital airway management — intubation may be needed. This cannot be treated at home.
DEVELOPMENT FIXTURE — If the person collapses or stops breathing, start CPR — but keep the head and neck as stable as possible.

This helper does not contact emergency services. You must call yourself.