Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is inflammation of the epiglottis, the small flap at the base of the tongue that covers the windpipe during swallowing. When it swells it can block the airway, which makes it a medical emergency. Signs include a severe sore throat, painful and difficult swallowing, drooling, a muffled voice, fever and noisy breathing. Anyone with these signs needs emergency care immediately.