Tracheitis
Tracheitis is an infection of the trachea, also known as the windpipe. Tracheitis most commonly affects children, although it may affect adults as well.
Causes of Tracheitis
Tracheitis usually occurs following an upper respiratory infection. Typically it is caused by the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus, but may also be caused by other bacteria or by a virus. The bacterial form of tracheitis usually leads to more complications than the viral variety. The reason tracheitis is more common in young children is that their narrower airways are more easily blocked by inflammation.
Symptoms of Tracheitis
The symptoms of tracheitis may appear as a complication of the common cold and may include:
- Croupy cough
- Difficulty breathing
- Elevated fever
- Stridor, a high-pitched wheezing during inhalation
- Nasal flaring
- Cyanosis, blue skin from lack of oxygen
Diagnosis of Tracheitis
Tracheitis can often be diagnosed by a physical examination. The examining physician pays close attention to breathing sounds, particularly to the potential sound of intercostal retractions, the sound of the ribs being pulled inward. Intercostal retractions are a sound associated with serious breathing difficulty.
The doctor may also do diagnostic tests to confirm whether the ailment is bacterial or viral, or to isolate a particular pathogen. Diagnostic tests may also be administered to rule out other causes, such as pneumonia, for the presenting symptoms. These tests may include X-rays of the throat or chest, a nasopharyngeal culture of secretions, and the testing of blood oxygen levels.
Treatment of Tracheitis
The usual treatment for tracheitis is the placement of an endotracheal tube through the patient's mouth into the airway to facilitate breathing. Typically, intravenous antibiotics will be administered during this period and the patient's breathing will be carefully monitored. When necessary, the patient will receive supplemental oxygen.
Risks of Tracheitis
While not common, serious, even life-threatening consequences of tracheitis are possible since the condition involves the air passages. Airway obstruction and toxic shock syndrome, a systemic reaction to bacterial invasion, are possible, though uncommon, complications of severe tracheitis.
Recovery from Tracheitis
While a serious and uncomfortable condition, tracheitis is quite treatable and the patient usually responds and recovers quickly.