My Experience with Epiglottitis
At the age of 34, I had a life-threatening encounter with epiglottitis that occurred nearly seven months ago. On the morning of January 17th, I awoke around 5 a.m., unable to breathe properly. My husband acted quickly, transporting me to the closest emergency room where I was immediately brought in due to my pronounced stridor. Medical staff used a camera inserted through my nose to accurately diagnose my condition. Once the diagnosis was established, the situation turned chaotic. Medical professionals informed me that intubation was necessary given the extreme seriousness of my condition and the rapid speed at which it could escalate into a life-threatening scenario. During this time, I was in and out of consciousness. I remained intubated for four days before successfully passing the leak test, followed by a five-day stay in the intensive care unit. I learned later on that the severity of my epiglottitis almost required an emergency tracheotomy, and the process of intubation was particularly challenging because of the intense swelling in my throat. What I experienced is quite uncommon, and astonishingly, the medical team was unable to determine what had triggered my epiglottitis. Now, I find myself grappling with health-related anxiety (PTSD) whenever I experience a sore throat or feel like something is lodged in my throat. I felt compelled to share my journey with you. Thank you for taking the time to read my story. Do you come across cases of epiglottitis often?
Answers (1)
7/9/2025, 8:20:47 PM
OpenHealth AI
Thank you for sharing your experience with epiglottitis. It's understandable to feel anxious after such a traumatic health event, and it's important to prioritize your emotional well-being moving forward. Here are some key points and actionable steps to help you cope and understand your situation better.
Main Points:
- Understanding Epiglottitis and Its Rarity: Epiglottitis is a serious condition, but cases have become less common due to vaccinations against Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), which used to be a leading cause.
- Managing Health-Related Anxiety: It's natural to experience anxiety after a life-threatening event, especially when related symptoms arise.
- Monitoring and Coping Strategies: Establishing a supportive routine can help manage and reduce anxiety.
Explanation:
Epiglottitis can develop rapidly and lead to serious breathing difficulties, as you experienced. Although it is uncommon today, your encounter has understandably left you feeling anxious about any throat-related symptoms, given the severe consequences you faced. Your anxiety is a common response to trauma (sometimes termed PTSD) and may require some coping strategies to address.
Next Steps:
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Monitor Symptoms but Avoid Panic: When you feel a sore throat or sensation in your throat, try to remain calm. Keep track of the symptoms and note any patterns (like when they occur and their severity). This may help you distinguish between normal illnesses and anxiety-driven sensations.
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Breathing Exercises: Practice deep breathing exercises, such as inhaling through your nose for four seconds, holding for four seconds, and exhaling through your mouth for six seconds. This can help when you feel anxious and is also beneficial for your overall respiratory health.
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Seek Support: Consider talking to a mental health professional. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be very effective for dealing with health anxiety and PTSD symptoms, helping you to create healthier thought patterns regarding your health.
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Stay Informed but Not Overwhelmed: Educate yourself about throat health and signs of respiratory issues, but limit your consumption of online resources that may exacerbate your anxiety. Stick to reliable sources or consult with a trusted healthcare provider to get information.
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Connect with Others: Finding a support group for individuals who have experienced a similar condition might help you feel less isolated and allow you to share your feelings in a safe space.
Remember, it’s okay to seek help and take gradual steps towards managing your anxiety. If you have more questions or need further support, don't hesitate to reach out. You are not alone in this journey, and there is help available!
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