Laryngeal edema

Laryngeal edema is a medical condition characterized by swelling in the larynx, also known as the voice box. This condition can be life-threatening as it may obstruct the airway, leading to difficulty in breathing.

Causes

Laryngeal edema can be caused by a variety of factors. These include:

• Allergic reactions: This is one of the most common causes of laryngeal edema. Allergens such as certain foods, medications, or insect stings can trigger an allergic reaction leading to swelling in the larynx.
• Infections: Bacterial or viral infections can cause inflammation and swelling in the larynx.
• Trauma: Physical injury to the throat or neck area can lead to laryngeal edema.
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): This condition, which causes stomach acid to flow back into the esophagus, can also cause laryngeal edema.

Symptoms

The symptoms of laryngeal edema can vary depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

• Difficulty breathing
• Changes in voice, such as hoarseness
• Coughing
• Difficulty swallowing
• Feeling of a lump in the throat

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of laryngeal edema typically involves a physical examination and a review of the patient's medical history. The doctor may also order tests such as a laryngoscopy, which allows the doctor to view the larynx directly, or imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI.

Treatment

Treatment for laryngeal edema depends on the underlying cause. It may include:

• Medications: These can include corticosteroids to reduce inflammation and swelling, antihistamines to treat allergic reactions, and antibiotics to treat infections.
• Surgery: In severe cases, a procedure known as a tracheostomy may be performed to create an opening in the neck to bypass the swollen larynx and allow the patient to breathe.

See also

• Laryngitis
• Anaphylaxis
• Angioedema