Causes, symptoms and treatment of swelling of the larynx (throat) at home. Laryngeal edema

One of the most threatening phenomena for people is a pathology associated with laryngeal edema. Its occurrence is characterized by a narrowing of the lumen, which poses a direct threat to life. Laryngeal edema sometimes develops very rapidly and can result in suffocation. Therefore, this condition requires urgent hospitalization.

This pathology is not an independent ailment, but a symptom in a number of diseases. There are non-inflammatory and inflammatory forms. Laryngeal edema most often affects young males, but, of course, both children and adults of both sexes are found among patients.

The reasons for the development of the disease in many adults are the following factors:

The presence of acute and chronic diseases. The former include influenza, scarlet fever, diphtheria, typhoid, measles and others, and the latter such as tuberculosis or syphilis.
The emergence of infectious and inflammatory ailments that are localized in the throat and the space around it - laryngitis, pharyngitis, sinusitis,.
Appearance as a complication after surgery in the throat and neck in general.
Injuries of various origins.
The presence of allergies.
Cardiovascular diseases, as well as liver and kidney pathologies.
Development after X-ray examination radiation therapy near the neck.
Pathologies in the organs adjacent to the larynx.

Have little child laryngeal edema sometimes occurs as a reaction to very hot food. Many of the above reasons are relevant for children as well.

It must be remembered that laryngeal edema refers to conditions that require an urgent response to their occurrence.

Symptoms

The lumen in the throat with the appearance of a spasm or a foreign body can narrow at one moment. This happens sharply when inflammation or an allergic reaction occurs. Chronic occurs when there is a swelling. The danger of this condition depends on the speed and degree of narrowing of the laryngeal lumen.

If there is an inflammatory laryngeal edema, then the person is worried about the following symptoms:

sore throat that worsens when swallowing
the feeling of the presence of a foreign object;
change the timbre of the voice.

With the expansion of the edematous region towards the scapular laryngeal folds and mucous membranes of the arytenoid cartilage, a feeling of suffocation appears.

General signs of acute pathology:

barking cough;
hoarseness;
swelling of the front surface and a change in its color to cyanotic;
wheezing breathing pattern.

In chronic swelling of the throat, the phenomenon of stenosis may not be so acutely pronounced, because the body adapts to gradual narrowing respiratory lumen and gets used to the lack of oxygen.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis is made by an otolaryngologist on the basis of examination, anamnesis and the patient's description of where he is in pain. Finding out what caused the narrowing of the glottis is already more difficult. Sometimes the doctor notices that a neoplasm has appeared under the hyperemic mucosa or there is a foreign object.

In order to find out the causes of the pathology, they do endoscopy, indirect laryngoscopy. Children undergo video micro-laryngoscopy.

The procedures are performed very carefully, as some of them may be accompanied by even greater difficulty in breathing and laryngeal spasm. In this case, asphyxiation occurs and, accordingly, fatal outcome.

Doctor after initial examination decides which organs need to be examined to determine the root cause of the disease. X-rays of the throat are prescribed and chest, computed tomography organs of the mediastinum, bronchoscopy.

Types of edema

Laryngeal edema is infectious and non-infectious. The first of them is more common than the second. They arise due to hypothermia, overstrain of the vocal cords, as well as after injuries, including too hot food and poisonous gaseous substances.

Due to stenosis of the throat, Quincke's edema or angioedema sometimes occurs. This is a condition of allergic origin, when other, nearby parts of the body also swell. Its danger lies in its rapid development.

Allergic edema occurs due to substances such as iodine-containing drugs, medications containing vitamin B, food products with chemical additives, household chemicals... An insect bite, hepatitis or disease can also lead to this condition. endocrine system... In this case, most likely, the person is genetically predisposed to such a reaction of the body.

Laryngeal edema treatment

Since children the greatest chances face stenosis of the larynx, then most often the first first aid render it to them. It is the same for both kids and adults. This requires:

Call an ambulance as soon as possible. During phone call you need to inform the dispatcher about the stenosis of the larynx in the child, because in this case they are obliged to remove the swelling within the next hour.
Calm down and try to calm the child, because excitement can increase the swelling of the laryngeal tissues.
Give him antiallergic medication. There is a high likelihood of edema reduction after taking the drug.
Increase the humidity level in the room. To do this, you need to turn on the humidifier or use steam.
Make inhalation with alkaline agents (saline or Borjomi water). These substances relieve cough during stenosis.
Soaring or rubbing your feet is a distraction.

After the arrival of an ambulance, you need to know that hospitalization should be mandatory, since this condition is extremely dangerous for the patient's life.

Drug treatment

In order to determine how to treat throat swelling, the doctor needs to know the causes of the disease, and based on this this method can be medicinal or surgical. Therapy for laryngeal stenosis should be aimed at restoring the person's unobstructed breathing..

When the throat is swollen, then drug treatment is carried out with the help of such drugs: antibacterial drugs wide range actions, antiallergic (antihistamines), diuretics and corticosteroids. The doctor chooses the drugs based on the diagnosis. In case of edema of an infectious origin, antibiotics are used, allergic - antihistamines.

If, after taking medications, the puffiness does not decrease, then surgery... For this, a tracheotomy is done - at the beginning of asphyxia, the larynx is cut, and a cannula is inserted into the operated area. This allows you to achieve the restoration of the respiratory process.

You need to know that with stenosis of the throat, doctors advise limiting fluid intake, not talking loudly and refraining from heavy physical exertion.

Folk remedies

Laryngeal edema is a very dangerous condition that can quickly worsen, therefore it cannot be treated at home, since a patient with such a symptom must be hospitalized.

If your throat is swollen it comes not about an independent disease. The symptom occurs due to a number of reasons that precede the swelling and indicate the presence of any abnormalities in the person. Localized on loose submucous tissue, which is located in the larynx. The nature of development has a different degree of its manifestation. In some cases, there is an insignificant increase in tissue (with limited swelling), in others - a narrowing of the laryngeal muscles in such a way that it is impossible to breathe freely.

The main causes of a dangerous symptom

Edema that occurs in the larynx is a rapidly developing vasomotor-allergic process in the mucous areas of the pharynx, narrowing part of its lumen. In the vast majority of all known cases, it is a secondary manifestation of any disease or inflammation of the pharyngeal region.

The process by which the lumen of the pharynx and trachea narrows can be of 3 types:

lightning fast: when foreign bodies get in, spasms occur;
acute: in the event of diseases of an infectious or allergic type;
chronic: actively develops in the event of a tumor.

The symptomatology of edema of the mucous throat largely depends on the size of the narrowing of the pharyngeal lumen, as well as the transience of its development. In the presence of inflammation, which often begins in a person on initial stages development of the process, sensations appear in the throat acute pain that can increase with swallowing.

Let's highlight several main reasons for the development of edema in the larynx region.

Allergy

Emergence allergic edema can be triggered by a number of various factors that directly depend on what kind of external influence the body begins to react to. Both food and various plants, animal hair, dust, chemical products- shampoos or detergents.

With a close study of edema with allergies, you can accurately determine the factors that contributed to its appearance. If an external stimulus has entered the body through the respiratory tract, then the stenosis begins to localize in the area of the so-called epiglottis. If the allergen has penetrated the esophagus, then localization is noted on the arytenoid cartilage.

The danger is that allergic edema is of a lightning-fast nature. When it appears, a person's voice may completely disappear. This symptom is high danger for human life, as it is capable of provoking the appearance of suffocation and a complete stop of the respiratory process.

Angina

An infectious disease with local symptoms in the form of acute inflammation of several or one tonsils. The reason is a viral or bacterial infection.

The treatment of sore throat must be taken very seriously. You should not carry it on your feet without observing strict bed rest... Treatment of this ailment cannot be neglected, since running form sore throats can be the cause of edema and abscess.

Swelling of the throat with severe angina is not its most dangerous complication... It can begin in a person in advanced stages with a neglect of this ailment, as well as in the event of severe vomiting... The main symptoms of angina edema:

increased heart rate;
labored breathing;
the appearance of pain in the throat or ears;
severe blue discoloration of the skin on the face;
inability to carry out the swallowing process;
a rapid, wet cough and a hoarse, suppressed voice.

Cold

Colds are active along with bright severe symptoms, among which there may be a sharp, strong increase in temperature, the onset of strong or weak chills, the appearance of pain in the head or pharynx. Swelling in the throat due to the onset of a cold is accompanied by inflammation, in which there is a burning sensation, a feeling of acute dull pain when swallowing.

A feeling of constriction may appear, which feels like the presence of some foreign bodies in the laryngeal region. However, the swelling that occurs with colds is also non-extensive. In this case, no painful sensations are observed, but it is clearly felt strong tension near the area of the muscles located in the larynx. The main signs are:

burning;
feeling dry;
high temperature;
severe frequent cough.

Sometimes there is a sensation of acute pain during swallowing, and even in calm state when a person does not eat or speak. One of the characteristic features of such edema is that a person's voice may become slightly muffled or completely disappear for an indefinite time.

Other factors

The causes of edema can be physical laryngeal damage, which is accompanied by the occurrence inflammatory processes, getting into the larynx of foreign objects and different kinds surgical interventions. Other factors:

exacerbation of syphilis or tuberculosis;
an acute form of inflammation in the cartilage located in the pharynx;
carrying out radiotherapy of organs located in the neck;
penetration into the body infectious diseases bacterial type (diphtheria, epiglottitis);
severe burns due to careless consumption of hot food or liquids;
diseases in the pharyngeal region, which are accompanied by acute inflammation(measles, SARS, typhus).

Sometimes a swollen throat appears in a person with cirrhosis of the liver or abnormalities in the cardiovascular system.

The reason may be the compression of the veins, as well as the so-called lymphatic vessels... In this case, there is a violation in blood circulation, which provokes the onset of a symptom.

Clinical picture

In the photo, swelling in the laryngeal region:

The first symptom is expressed in the occurrence of acute painful sensations, as well as a feeling of the presence in the pharynx of some foreign body. The pain may worsen after eating, swallowing, and speaking.

Other signs that indicate the presence of puffiness include:

suffocation;
aphonia (loss of voice);
stridor (difficulty breathing, accompanied by noise).

A person who has the first stage of manifestation of edema of the pharynx and larynx often becomes irritable, restless. The speed of onset of symptoms depends on the type of swelling that appears. When acute form the first signs appear within 1-2 hours, and with chronic symptoms - within a few days or weeks.

Some people confuse the swelling that develops in the larynx region with an edema called Quincke.

The onset of laryngeal edema is one of the accompanying symptoms, which indicates the presence of a disease, inflammation or allergic reactions, while it is local in nature. It can have a diffuse or limited form, is capable of affecting the subcutaneous tissue, mucous membrane. It can appear suddenly and develop rapidly. It is sometimes called giant urticaria or so-called angioedema. Overwhelmingly, it appears in humans younger age, and in women it is observed much more often than in the male population.

Swelling inside the throat develops exclusively in the laryngeal region, and giant urticaria can appear on any organ, part of the body where subcutaneous fat is present. The main signs of angioedema include:

shortness of breath, hoarseness, muffled cough (when it appears in the larynx region);
the appearance of puffiness on parts of the body such as lips, cheeks or eyelids;
when it occurs in the genitourinary system, it is accompanied by cystitis;
if it occurs in the digestive tract, it can be accompanied by dyspeptic disorders and severe pain in the abdomen.

Diagnostic measures

If the throat is swollen and it is difficult to breathe, it is important to make an accurate diagnosis, which is usually not a problem. You can understand the situation after:

consultation with an otolaryngologist;
passing indirect laryngoscopy, which provides precise definition places of swelling on the mucous membranes and the nature of the development of the symptom.

During the diagnosis of the patient, bronchoscopy, radiography or CT of the mediastinal organs can be used. The diagnostic method is selected for each patient individually.

First aid

It is important to know how to relieve throat swelling on your own at home. If a person begins to experience strong pain and a feeling of tightness that makes it difficult to breathe, you need to immediately give first aid. It will relieve inflammation, restore and stabilize the respiratory process. Otherwise, suffocation and asphyxiation may occur.

First of all, you need to unbutton the collar and provide an easy flow of air. If the process arose due to allergies, you need to eliminate the harmful effects of allergens with the help of drugs such as or. The latter is hormonal agent, it should only be used in severe cases.

To reduce the size of puffiness, you can use drugs that have a vasoconstrictor effect on the body. These include Nazol or Nazivin. If the symptom appears due to, a tourniquet or a simple bandage should be applied near the site of the lesion and given to the affected person.

Treatment with modern methods

When treating swelling inside the throat, it is recommended to exercise as little as possible physical and vocal activities. Doctors restrict the patient from taking fluids. Drug treatment provides for the use of antihistamines, glucocorticoids, and dehydration agents.

With severely weakened immunity, oral intake of vitamin C and glucose is prescribed. In the absence of positive dynamics of treatment or with a general deterioration of the patient's condition, intravenous infusions are additionally used for treatment.

Treatment for a swelling in the throat involves maintaining complete rest and silence for several days. Registered special diet, consisting of liquid or semi-liquid food, which is not as strong as solid irritating to the mucous membrane of the throat. The food consumed should be at room temperature and of plant origin. It is forbidden to eat food seasoned with spices, vinegar or hot spices.

Traditional methods only supplement the main therapy and are used after consultation with the doctor. To relieve inflammation and reduce puffiness, special rinses are used with a soda solution. For cooking, you need to take about 250 milliliters warm water and add 1⁄2 tsp to it. soda. You can supplement the soda solution by adding a little salt or a few drops of iodine to it.

A decoction made from ginger has proven itself well: it is necessary to grind the root of the plant well, and then boil it in water for about 10 -15 minutes. This broth has good anti-inflammatory properties, accelerates the healing process of damaged tissues of the larynx.

Cold compresses help to perfectly eliminate inflammation. In their capacity, you can use a rag soaked in cold water, or pieces of dry ice well wrapped in a thin cloth. Some people use the most ordinary heating pad filled with cold water.

Carrot juice, which is mixed with a small amount of honey, removes puffiness well. It is recommended to consume such a composition at least 3 times a day. One intake of such a solution should not exceed a dose of 100 milliliters.

In order to eliminate excess fluid from the whole body and to reduce the size of the edema, decoctions made from a plant such as rose hips should be used. It is known to have a pronounced diuretic effect, due to which it is quickly excreted. excess fluid... For cooking, you need to take 1 tbsp. berries of this plant and boil them well in one liter of water. The solution should be infused for at least 3-4 hours in a dark place. It is recommended to consume it in an amount of 100 milliliters throughout the day.

Preventive measures to prevent swelling and sore throat include getting regular medical check-ups. It is also recommended to avoid getting foreign objects in the throat.

It is advised to eat food that is slightly warm or even at room temperature. Hot food can damage mucous membranes and cause swelling.

Any edema is a serious symptom that requires full attention and a responsible attitude to treatment.

- swelling of the tissues of the larynx of an inflammatory or non-inflammatory nature with a narrowing of the lumen of the organ, resulting from a violation of neuro-reflex mechanisms and hypersensitivity immune system... It develops against the background of other diseases, it can be fulminant, acute or chronic. It manifests itself as sore throat, voice changes, and foreign body sensation. If stenosis occurs, suffocation is possible, which is a danger to the patient's life. It is diagnosed on the basis of complaints and data from indirect laryngoscopy. Treatment is with antibiotics, corticosteroids, antihistamines, and dehydration medications. In acute stenosis, a tracheostomy is necessary.

Laryngeal edema is a secondary pathology that can occur when traumatic injuries and diseases of the larynx of various origins... The polyethiological nature of this condition determines its fairly widespread prevalence. Due to the possibility of lightning fast either acute development stenosis laryngeal edema requires close attention specialists in the field of otolaryngology for timely emergency treatment measures to save the patient's life. It can be diagnosed at any age, more often it is detected in men 18-35 years old. In the spring and summer period, the incidence slightly increases, which is due to an increase in the number of allergic reactions to respiratory allergens.

Causes of laryngeal edema

Allocate the following reasons development:

Allergic diseases... The most common allergens are pollen, house dust, animal dander, drugs and food.
Traumatic injury... Edema can be triggered by exposure to harsh chemicals or mechanical damage tissues by a foreign body of the larynx.
Acute infections... Usually this pathology develops in children infectious diseases: diphtheria, measles, scarlet fever. Edema of the larynx may occur with flu or laryngeal sore throat.
Inflammatory diseases of the larynx... In children, edema is more often detected with lining laryngitis, in adults - with infiltrative or phlegmonous laryngitis. With the catarrhal form of the disease, this complication is found less often.
Laryngeal neoplasms... Edema can appear in both benign and malignant neoplasms of the organ.
Diseases and injuries of nearby organs and tissues... Pathology is sometimes diagnosed with the development of purulent processes (phlegmon, abscess) in the neck, tumors of the thyroid gland and mediastinal organs.

Fulminant edema is more often observed with injuries and allergies, acute - with infectious and inflammatory diseases, chronic - with oncological lesions. The rate of progression of edema in all of the above pathologies may vary due to differences in the dynamics of the development of the underlying disease, individual reactivity of the body, exposure negative factors etc. As predisposing factors, otolaryngologists consider general exhaustion, vitamin deficiency, decompensated diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure and other pathologies that cause a general weakening of the body. It affects mainly the subglottic space, the zone of arytenoid cartilage, arytenoid folds, partially folds of the vestibule and the epiglottis, which is associated with the presence of loose connective tissue in the submucosal layer of the listed areas.

Laryngeal edema symptoms

The first manifestations are sore throat and foreign body sensation, aggravated by swallowing and speaking. The timbre of the voice changes - it becomes lower, deaf, hoarse. With a further increase in edema, difficult noisy breathing (stridor) occurs, due to a decrease in the lumen of the organ. Anxiety and irritability are noted. Asphyxiation develops. Loss of voice (aphonia) is possible. The rate of onset and severity of symptoms varies depending on the type of laryngeal edema. With a lightning-fast form, the formation of a detailed clinical picture takes several minutes, with an acute one - several hours, with a chronic one - several days or even weeks. The faster the pathology progresses, the higher the likelihood of life-threatening complications.

Complications of laryngeal edema

A formidable complication of edema is acute stenosis of the larynx, which poses an immediate threat to the patient's life. Shortness of breath, noisy labored breathing with the involvement of the muscles of the neck, back and shoulder girdle, retraction of the intercostal spaces and retraction of the supraclavicular fossa. The patient takes a forced position. Facial hyperemia, followed by cyanosis, is noted. Then the skin becomes grayish. Sweating, metabolic disorders, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract, cardiovascular and urinary systems are observed. In the absence of urgent medical care, asphyxia and death occurs.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis is straightforward and is performed immediately upon admission of the patient on the basis of:

Otolaryngologist consultation... The specialist collects complaints, finds out the anamnesis (when the first symptoms appeared, what was the dynamics of the disease), clarifies the presence of pathologies that could provoke laryngeal edema, notes characteristic changes: inspiratory shortness of breath, voice changes, etc.
Indirect laryngoscopy... During the examination, the doctor reveals swelling of the mucous membrane of a gelatinous or watery nature, pronounced thickening of the epiglottis, narrowing of the glottis. With edema of inflammatory genesis, hyperemia and minor hemorrhages in the mucous membrane are detected, with non-inflammatory lesions, these changes are not observed.

To determine the underlying pathology, other diagnostic techniques including tracheostomy. For patients with laryngeal stenosis, surgery is performed on admission, in severe cases, a conicotomy is first performed to eliminate asphyxia, and then a tracheostomy is applied.

Forecast and prevention

The prognosis depends on the underlying disease, the rate of increase in edema and the timeliness of applying for medical help... With fulminant edema, there is a risk of stenosis with asphyxia and death of the patient. In patients with acute edema stenosis develops less often, with qualified treatment the underlying pathology (usually inflammatory or infectious disease), the outcome is usually favorable. For chronic edema stenosis is uncommon, in such cases unfavorable prognosis may be due to the severity of the underlying disease (for example, the presence of an inoperable tumor).

For the prevention of edema, it is necessary to consult an otolaryngologist when signs of inflammatory and infectious diseases of the upper respiratory tract appear, to avoid the ingress of foreign bodies, to regularly undergo preventive honey. examinations, to be observed by a specialist if available chronic pathologies larynx.

About the throat is a gradual, temporary proliferation of the tissues of the pharynx and the initial sections of the laryngeal mucosa. As a result of the pathological process, obstruction (narrowing) of the airway lumen occurs.

If the throat is swollen, such a condition is fraught with the development of shortness of breath, suffocation and mechanical asphyxia (respiratory failure), which in itself leads to death.

The development of puffiness is possible in many pathological causes... In all cases, urgent therapy is required, otherwise the patient's death is likely.

The main factors for swelling of the pharynx are multiple. Among the reasons are:

Infectious factors (inflammation).
Allergic reasons.
Other factors.

You should consider them in more detail.

Angina

In other words, sharp or chronic tonsillitis... By its nature, it is an inflammatory process involving the tonsils. They increase in size and edema sets in, it is difficult for a person to swallow.

A severely swollen throat interferes with the normal passage of air, and suffocation occurs. This is an extremely dangerous condition.

Angina is accompanied by a mass of characteristic symptoms, in addition to swelling.

This pain syndrome intense character. The more active the process is, the stronger it is. Burning sensation in the soft palate, impaired swallowing function and food intake, intense exudation (outflow of purulent contents).

As a rule, the disease is provoked by the bacteria streptococcus or staphylococcus aureus type.

Therapy is required from the very first moments after diagnosis. A whole range of drugs are used: anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs, antibacterial or antiviral drugs, antiseptics.

First generation antihistamines are used to relieve puffiness. In severe cases, artificial ventilation of the lungs or other methods is performed.

Laryngitis in advanced stages

The acute phase of laryngitis requires urgent treatment, since there is a high likelihood of developing edema and increasing suffocation. The disease is characterized by inflammation of the larynx mucosa.

Accompanied by pathological process intense barking cough unproductive nature (phlegm is not secreted), pain in the pharynx and neck area, as well as other symptoms, such as a shrunken voice.

Therapy of the process requires the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antihistamines for urgent relief of throat swelling, antibiotics or antiviral drugs.

It is difficult to relieve obstruction with non-invasive methods, but it is possible if competent first aid is provided.

Formation of a boil in the pharynx

This is a kind of abscess formed in the hypodermis (subcutaneous fatty tissue of the oropharynx). With paratonsillar localization of the process (next to one of the tonsils), intense suffocation and edema are observed.

Mass effect occurs when the abscess swells to such a size that it begins to block the airways.

It is treated extremely quickly. Conservative therapy is ineffective in most cases.

Acute respiratory viral infections

Influenza viruses, rotaviruses, adenoviruses, and other pathological agents often develop.

Characterized by a rapid rise in temperature to 39 degrees and above, cutting pain and tickling in the larynx, swelling of the tonsils and general weakness.

The peculiarity of viral lesions is the difficulty of curing, since there are no drugs that directly kill viruses.

Therapy is carried out with significant dosages, anti-inflammatory, antihistamines and other drugs of a similar nature.

Chickenpox

Diseases are dangerous in terms of symptoms childhood developing in adult patients. First of all, mumps (mumps), somewhat less often rubella.

Chickenpox is triggered by the herpes virus, namely its third strain (Varicella-Zoster virus).

With a complicated course of the pathological process, damage to the oropharynx and mucous membranes of the larynx occurs. Gradually, inflammation and swelling of the tissues of the larynx occurs and a condition is observed when the throat is swollen, but does not hurt.

Conservative treatment should begin from the very first days of the development of the disease.

Especially often the described complication develops during the formation of the disease in adult patients. Children tolerate chickenpox at times easier, which is explained by the characteristics of the body.

Mononucleosis

It is provoked by the already known herpes virus. This time with a strain of the fourth type (Epstein-Barr virus).

It is characterized by a whole range of symptoms, including headaches, manifestations of general intoxication, disorders of the liver, urinary tract, etc.

Objective manifestation is the appearance of atypical mononuclear cells in capillary blood. The same effect is produced by the defeat of cytomegaloviruses (herpes virus of the fifth type).

Non-infectious factors

Most often we are talking about allergies. varying degrees severity. Including in the extreme form of anaphylactic shock or Quincke's edema.

The essence of the process is as follows:

In the course of the pathology, the allergen substance penetrates into the patient's body. This can be a harmless object, such as a particle of pollen, house dust, animal dandruff, wool, pigment contained in food, etc. Within the framework of the described system, an allergen is called an antigen.
The body initiates a powerful immune response in response to the penetration of pathogenic structures into the body. Specific immunoglobulins are produced, which combine with antigens, forming a single antigen-antibody complex.
These formed structures are deposited on the tissues of the larynx and other anatomical structures, destroying mast cells-basophils. The result is a blowout a large number toxic substance, histamine. He is also a mediator of inflammation and initiates edema at the local level.
Histamine destroys tissue, provokes inflammation and sudden severe edema.

It is possible to relieve allergies of this kind only with antihistamines of the first generation in large dosages.

Another common cause of throat swelling is a foreign body entering the anatomical structures of the lower respiratory tract.

In such a situation, it is required to remove the object to normalize breathing.

Then anti-inflammatory therapy is carried out and the use of antihistamines to stop secondary processes. Basically, this is observed in preschool children.

Typical symptoms of throat swelling

The clinical symptoms of throat tissue swelling are multiple and depend on the type of pathological process.

Allergic edema

It is characterized by the rapid development of the following symptoms:

Pain syndrome in the oropharynx area of a burning, scratching character.
Feeling of lack of air.
Dyspnea. An increase in the number of breaths per minute.
Suffocation. Inability to breathe normally due to obstruction of the lower airways.
Itching sensation in the throat, desire to scratch the affected area.
Swelling of the face, lips, and other nearby anatomical structures.
Unproductive or minimally productive cough. It develops in response to swelling and irritation of the mucous membranes.

Allergy symptoms are specific enough for a quick diagnosis. You need to act immediately.

Infectious throat edema

As already mentioned, it develops on initial stages laryngitis, tonsillitis, other pathological processes.

The symptoms are as follows:

Intense pain in the throat and oropharynx. Burning pains, cutting, pulling. Strengthened with food intake, liquids. They are given to the neck, spine, face and cheekbones. They can also radiate to the teeth.
Breathing disorders such as shortness of breath or choking. Over time, asphyxia develops with the prospect of a lethal outcome.
, becomes hoarse, the body temperature is elevated.
Cough of various types. As a rule, minimally productive and barking more often.

It is important to note:

Infectious edema never develops at the same time - this is typical only for allergies. It forms gradually, the clinical picture manifests itself for a long time. It takes several hours or even tens of hours to form the final state. This is enough to provide first aid.

Non-inflammatory edema

Non-inflammatory edema is usually accompanied by the following symptoms:

Cough.
Dyspnea.
Suffocation.
Voice disorders (hoarseness, hoarseness).

In all three cases, urgent action is needed, the patient's life is at stake.

Emergency help to the sick

First of all, you need to call an ambulance, even if the development of edema is just beginning.

It is impossible to cope with puffiness on your own. It will only get worse.

When calling an ambulance, the symptoms should be carefully described so that an urgent need for medical attention is understood. For a while, while the ambulance is traveling, you need to slow down the pathological process.

The algorithm of actions is as follows:

If an allergic reaction occurs, it is worth eliminating the exposure dangerous substance on the victim's body. If there is an alimentary factor, it is recommended to rinse your mouth and throat with a soda solution at the rate of 1 teaspoon per glass of water (if possible).

To plant the patient. The position should be exactly sitting, in lying position the patient's body condition will worsen.
Loosen the collar and free the neck completely so that the compression does not aggravate the victim's symptoms.
Give the patient any antihistamine this will quickly relieve the swelling of the throat. Better if it is a first-generation drug. Diphenhydramine or Pipolfen will do. Drugs such as Cetrin and its analogs are too weak.
You need to open a window or window to ensure the flow fresh air... As a last resort, you need to take the patient out into the street (on the balcony, etc.).
Apply a wet compress to your neck, a bag with cold water or ice - narrowing of the blood vessels will occur, as a result of which the edematous tissues will slightly decrease in size.

In the presence of cardiac arrest, an urgent massage is performed. Such situations are rare, but sometimes they do. You need to be on full alert.

If swelling of the tissues of the larynx is not a threat to life, then use different methods treatments based on the cause of the ailment. For example, if the swelling is caused by a sore throat, then the patient is given antibiotic therapy. Before that, a swab is taken from the nose and larynx to determine the sensitivity of the pathogen to antibiotics. Treatment is pathogenetic, that is, it affects the pathogenesis of edema.

Symptomatic therapy is aimed at eliminating not only edema, but also accompanying symptoms... Very often, swelling is accompanied by pain when swallowing, signs of intoxication and other painful manifestations. The patient is prescribed solutions and sprays of local antiseptics, which eliminate the problem, make breathing easier and improve overall well-being.

If the swelling is caused by foreign body in the throat, then to alleviate the condition before the arrival of an ambulance, it is necessary to press several times on the stomach 3-5 cm above the navel. This will help calm down and restore your heart rate.
In case of infectious edema with suffocation, it is recommended to apply to the throat cold compress and swallow a piece of ice. At severe pain, before the ambulance arrives, you can do hot bath for legs.
If the cause of the edema is an allergy, then an injection with antihistamines or a medicine pill under the tongue is required.
To eliminate chemical burns, rinse with a solution that neutralizes the cause of the burn.

Regardless of the cause of the swollen throat, medical attention is imperative. As even mild symptoms of choking can progress quickly, causing oxygen starvation vital organs and systems.

Drug treatment

Elimination of swelling of the throat on early stages, allows you to prevent the development of serious complications, but makes it difficult to differentiate. Medicines are used to restore normal breathing and relieve painful symptoms. For this, the following means are used: diuretics quick action, tranquilizers, mustard plasters for calves and hot foot baths, sedatives and antihistamines.

Penicillin

Antimicrobial agent with bactericidal and bacteriostatic action. It is active against gram-positive and gram-negative bacteria, anaerobic microorganisms. It is available in the form of injections and tablets for sucking and oral administration. Effective method the use of the drug is its intramuscular administration. The active substance quickly enters the bloodstream and is distributed throughout the body. When administered orally, the antibiotic is poorly absorbed, since part of it is destroyed under the influence of gastric juice.

Indications for use: treatment of diseases caused by microorganisms sensitive to the drug, pneumonia, sepsis, meningitis, urinary and biliary tract infections. Empyema of the pleura, tonsillitis, scarlet fever, diphtheria, purulent infections of the mucous membrane and skin, gynecological and ophthalmic diseases, gonorrhea, syphilis, ENT diseases.
The method of administration and dosage depend on the form of release and indications for use. Injections are administered intravenously, intramuscularly and in spinal canal... For effective therapy the dosage is calculated for 1 ml of blood 0.1-0.3 U of penicillin. The medicine is administered every 3-4 hours. Tablets are usually taken at 250-500 mg every 8 hours, with a maximum daily dose of 750 mg.
It is contraindicated to use with high sensitivity to penicillins. Not prescribed for patients with bronchial asthma, allergic diseases, urticaria, hay fever.
Side effects are manifested in the form of allergic reactions, gastrointestinal disorders, vaginal candidiasis and oral cavity, muscle spasms of the extremities and anaphylactic shock. If the product is used during pregnancy, then there is a possibility of fetal sensitization. In case of overdose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea appear. If the drug is taken by patients with renal failure, then there is a risk of developing hyperkalemia.

Prednisone

A synthetic analogue of the hormones hydrocortisone and cortisone, which are secreted by the adrenal cortex. The medicine is 5 times more active in comparison with the substances excreted by the body. It has anti-allergic, anti-shock, anti-inflammatory and anti-toxic effects. Antiallergenic action is based on the reduction of basophils, inhibition of secretion and synthesis of biologically active substances. Available in tablets for oral use, ampoules for injections and tubes in the form of an ointment.

When administered orally, their gastrointestinal tract is rapidly absorbed and spreads through the tissues of the body. The maximum concentration in blood plasma is observed 1.5 hours after ingestion. Biotransformed and metabolized in the liver, excreted in the form of metabolites in the urine and feces. Penetrates the placental barrier and is excreted with breast milk.
The main indications for use: collagenoses, bronchial asthma, Infectious mononucleosis, eczema and neurodermatitis, various allergic diseases, pancreatitis, collapse and shock, allergic conjunctivitis, injury and postoperative period during transplantation, to prevent organ rejection.
The dosage is selected individually. For the relief of acute conditions, take 20-30 mg per day, a maintenance dose of 10 mg per day. When using injections, use 30-60 mg intramuscularly or intravenously. The duration of therapy is 10-14 days. During treatment, it is necessary to monitor blood pressure, urine, blood and feces.
Side effects occur with prolonged use of the drug. Most often it is obesity, hirsutism, acne, disorders menstrual cycle... Possible pathologies from the gastrointestinal tract, increased blood clotting and weakening of the protective properties of the immune system. In case of overdose, side effects may increase. Therapy is symptomatic.
Prednisolone is contraindicated in hypertension, diabetes mellitus, during pregnancy, in acute endocarditis, psychosis, gastric ulcer and duodenum... Not used to treat patients with syphilis, active form tuberculosis and in old age.

Diphenhydramine

Antihistamine, antiallergic, hypnotic and local anesthetic drug. Blocks histamine receptors, reduces spasms of smooth muscles, relieves edema from tissues and mucous membranes. It is produced in the form of powder for injection, ampoules, suppositories and gel for external use.

After application, it is quickly and well absorbed. The binding to blood plasma proteins is up to 99%. The maximum concentration is achieved within 1-4 hours after oral administration. Most of the active ingredients are metabolized in the liver. The half-life is 1-4 hours. Passes through the placental and blood-brain barrier, excreted in breast milk. The maximum therapeutic effect develops within an hour after application and lasts for 4-6 hours.
The medicine is prescribed for the treatment of such diseases: urticaria, rhinitis, allergic conjunctivitis, itchy dermatosis, angioedema... Diphenhydramine prevents allergic complications from blood transfusion. It is used for bronchial asthma, stomach ulcers, gastritis, colds, extensive injuries to the skin and soft tissues.
For adult patients, 30-50 mg is prescribed up to three times a day, the duration of treatment is 10-14 days. The maximum single dosage is 100 mg, daily 250 mg. For children 2-6 years old, appoint 12-25 mg, 6-12 years old, 25-50 mg every 6-8 hours. Maximum daily dosage should not exceed 150 mg, and a single 50 mg.
Side effects are manifested from all organs and systems. Most often, patients experience sedation, general weakness and fatigue, headaches, and drowsiness. Perhaps the development of tachycardia, hypotension, thrombocytopenia, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea. V rare cases allergic skin reactions, frequent or difficult urination, dry throat and nose, increased sweating and chills occur.
Contraindicated in case of hypersensitivity to active ingredients, during pregnancy and lactation. Not prescribed for patients with bronchial asthma, ulcerative lesion duodenum, angle-closure glaucoma, as well as stenosis of the bladder neck.
In case of an overdose, symptoms of dry mouth, facial flushing, confusion, convulsions and even death appear. Overdose treatment is symptomatic. It is recommended to induce vomiting, wash out the stomach and take absorbents.

Furosemide

Diuretic, that is, a diuretic. Available in ampoules for intravenous and intramuscular administration and tablets for oral administration. The medicine is prescribed to eliminate congestion in the systemic and pulmonary circulation associated with heart failure. It is applied when renal failure, pulmonary and cerebral edema. Helps in treatment severe forms hypertension.

Inside appoint 40 mg once a day, the maximum daily dose is 320 mg. After reducing the swelling, the dosage is gradually reduced to the minimum effective. With intramuscular or intravenous administration use 20-60 mg 1-2 times a day, maximum permissible dosage 120 mg. Duration of treatment is 7-10 days.
It is contraindicated to use during pregnancy and lactation, with hypokalemia, renal failure, hepatic coma, mechanical obstruction urinary tract.
Side effects are manifested from many organs and systems. Most often it is nausea, skin redness, itching, decreased blood pressure, kidney inflammation, increased urine output and dizziness. Possible development of hypokalemia, uricosuria, hyperglycemia and hyperuricemia. Adverse Reactions are reversible, to eliminate them it is necessary to reduce the dosage.

Suprastin

Antiallergic, antihistamine agent. The active ingredient is a chlorinated analogue of tripelenamine with a sedative effect. Its mechanism of action is based on blocking histamine H1 receptors, therefore, the agent is used for various allergic reactions. The action is aimed at preventing hypersensitivity reactions. Has two forms of release: tablets and injection in ampoules.

When taken orally, the medication is absorbed from digestive tract. Healing effect comes in 15-30 minutes and lasts for 6 hours. It is metabolized in the liver, excreted by the kidneys.
It is used to treat various allergic reactions (swelling, urticaria, itching, conjunctivitis). Helps in reducing swelling of the mucous membrane of the middle ear and sinuses, with sinusitis and otitis media. To reduce persistent hyperemia, the agent is used in combination with Analgin and No-shpa.
The dosage and duration of therapy depend on the severity of the allergic reaction. As a rule, the medication is taken within 5-7 days. For children under 6 years old, ½ tablets are prescribed 2 times a day, for children 6-14 years old, 1-1.5 tablets, for adults, 2 tablets. In case of an overdose, hallucinations, anxiety, convulsions, athetosis, ataxia and impaired coordination of movements appear. For treatment, you must seek medical help.
It is contraindicated to use when individual intolerance active substance, acute attacks asthma, myocardial infarction, arrhythmias, stomach ulcers, angle-closure glaucoma, urinary retention, prostatic hyperplasia and hypersensitivity to ethylenediamine derivatives.
Side effects of Suprastin arise from many organs and systems. The medicine is causing increased fatigue, dizziness and headaches, decreased vision, convulsions. Possible tachycardia and arrhythmia, painful sensations in the epigastric region, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, flatulence, changes in appetite. In rare cases, there are pathological changes the hematopoietic system and the response of the immune system to the drug.

Fenistil with throat edema

For the treatment of swelling of the respiratory system, drugs of various effectiveness and action are used. Fenistil with throat edema deserves special attention. Antiallergic agent blocks H1 histamine receptors, has anti-serotonin and anti-bradykinin effects. Reduces capillary permeability, preventing allergic reactions. Has a mild sedative effect. Available in the form of drops and gel for external use.

The agent is prescribed for treatment and prevention allergic diseases: urticaria, drug and food allergies, rhinitis. Helps in eliminating itching from insect bites, atopic dermatitis and chickenpox.
Adult patients are prescribed 20-40 drops 3 times a day. If the medication causes drowsiness, then the dosage must be reduced or divided into a larger amount. The dosage for children is calculated at 0.1 mg / body weight per day, in three doses. Children under one year old are given 3-10 drops 3 times a day, from 1-3 years old - 10-15 drops and from 3-12 years old - 15-20 drops.
Side effects are manifested as increased drowsiness at the beginning of the day, a feeling of dry mouth, indigestion, nausea, dizziness and headaches.
Overdose symptoms: convulsions, fever, heart palpitations, hallucinations, general weakness. In rare cases, urinary retention, vasomotor and vasomotor suppression occurs. respiratory centers... Fenistil is contraindicated in patients under 1 year of age, with intolerance to its components, during pregnancy and lactation.

Inhalation with throat swelling

Most often, respiratory swelling occurs due to inhalation or ingestion of allergens. Inhalation with swelling of the throat can stop the pathological process and restore the normal functioning of the body. When inhaled, medicinal substances penetrate the respiratory tract and have a therapeutic effect. The procedure is recommended for a runny nose, sinusitis, inflammation. palatine tonsils, pharyngitis, pneumonia and bronchitis.

The main action of local therapy:

Elimination of inflammation and swelling of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory system.
Removal of phlegm and mucus.
Elimination of spasms that occur with a strong cough.
Restoring normal breathing.

The procedure is contraindicated in case of a tendency to nosebleeds, tonsillitis, severe respiratory failure, low-grade fever, diseases of the cardiovascular system and lungs. Steam inhalation effective for swelling of the mucous membrane of the upper respiratory tract. This method relieves the symptoms of laryngitis, tracheitis and rhinitis.

For inhalation, it is better to use essential oils of fir, pine and juniper. A medicinal infusion of chamomile, calendula, sage or St. John's wort is also suitable for treatment. To eliminate severe swelling and pain, you can use a soda solution, sea salt, or iodine.

Treatment is best done 1-2 hours after eating. Inhale and exhale without tension. For an hour after inhalation, do not eat and try not to talk. Particular attention should be paid to the temperature of the water, as breathing over boiling water can lead to burns. The duration of the procedure for adults is 1-3 minutes, for children no more than a minute, 3-5 times a day.

Vitamins

Treatment of edema should be combined, that is, aimed at eliminating painful symptoms and the root causes of the disorder. Particular attention is paid to strengthening the protective properties of the immune system. For these purposes, vitamins are used.

For the treatment of puffiness of an allergic nature, it is recommended to take vitamin PP, as it minimizes the signs of allergies and slows down the development of allergic reactions. B vitamins help with nasal congestion, skin rashes, and reduce sensitivity to certain allergens. Vitamin C relieves symptoms seasonal allergies and prevents the development of severe allergic reactions such as anaphylactic shock and suffocation. Vitamin E is effective for allergic manifestations on the skin.
Swelling of the larynx after injuries, operations - B vitamins (B12), calcium, amino acids and iron.
If the edema is caused by inflammatory or infectious irritants, then it is recommended to use vitamins A, B, C, zinc preparations and beta-carotene. Useful trace elements take part in the fight against the virus, normalize metabolism, improve the condition and functioning of all organs and systems.

Physiotherapy treatment

To eliminate the swelling of the throat, they use not only medication, but also physiotherapy. This method is based on the use of physical factors: ultrasound, laser, currents, magnetic fields. The treatment improves blood and lymph circulation, accelerates metabolic processes in the coverage area.

Depending on the cause of the swelling of the airways, the following physiotherapy procedures are prescribed:

UHF - the lesion is affected electric field ultra-high frequency. The treatment has a bacteriostatic effect, reduces swelling, and restores microcirculation. The procedure is carried out daily for 5-6 days.
Magnetotherapy - the neck is exposed to an alternating low-frequency magnetic field. It improves blood circulation at the capillary level, relieves inflammation, reduces swelling of tissues and mucous membranes.
Electrophoresis - the procedure is carried out with the use of decongestants. Treatment is daily, the course of therapy is 10-15 sessions.
Decimeter physiotherapy - used to reduce swelling and inflammation, eliminates congestion in the lungs. The course of treatment is 10 procedures.
Inhalation - aerosol therapy improves breathing, cleanses the bronchi and has an anti-inflammatory effect.

Traditional treatment

For the treatment of diseases, one of the symptoms of which is swelling of the upper part of the respiratory tract, both classical and folk methods... Consider a few recipes alternative therapy which allows quickly painful signs:

Dissolve a spoonful of baking soda in a glass boiled water, add a couple of drops of calendula or eucalyptus essential oil to the solution. Gargling relieves pain and swelling.
If you are not allergic to honey or milk, a cup of hot tea with milk, honey or raspberries can be used for treatment. It is not only tasty, but also quickly restores normal breathing.
If the swelling is caused by infectious pathogens, then potato juice is used for treatment. This agent has bactericidal properties.
A solution can be used to flush the respiratory tract. sea salt... Dissolve a teaspoon of the product in 500 ml of warm water. The solution is suitable for washing the sinuses and steam inhalation.
If rinsing, rinsing and inhalation caused dryness and irritation of the mucous membrane in the nose and larynx, then you need to use sea buckthorn oil... The tool has an anti-inflammatory effect and helps to restore damaged mucous membranes.

If none of the above methods of alternative treatment has made breathing easier and the swelling is gradually increasing, it is necessary to urgently seek medical help. Such ineffectual self-medication can lead to suffocation and death.

Herbal treatment

Many drugs have restrictions on their use. Herbal treatment is safe, as it has minimal contraindications and side effects... Before starting therapy, you should consult a doctor to determine the cause of the shortness of breath. For the treatment of edema, diuretic herbs can be used, which have the same effect as diuretics:

Pour boiling water over white birch leaves and simmer for 10-15 minutes. After cooling, strain and take ½ cup 3-4 times a day.

Bearberry leaves must be insisted in a glass of boiling water and taken in 1 spoonful.
If the edema is caused by pathologies of the cardiovascular system, then an infusion of corn silk with honey is suitable to eliminate it.

Inhalation can be prepared from medicinal herbs. For these purposes I use chamomile, sage or calendula. Plants have anti-inflammatory, sedative and antiseptic properties. The herb is brewed at the rate of 1 spoonful of raw materials per 1 glass of water. The agent must be boiled in a water bath, let it brew, strain and heat to the required temperature for inhalation. Various essential oils are suitable for these purposes. Eucalyptus, fir, pine, peach, rosehip, anise or almond oil are good for breathing and have a decongestant effect.

Homeopathy

Usage unconventional methods treatment has proven to be minimal negative influence on the body, but persistent therapeutic action... Homeopathy belongs to such methods. Before carrying out it, it is necessary to consult with a homeopathic doctor who will select suitable drugs and their dosage.

Spongia - helps relieve swelling of the larynx, which is accompanied by a strong dry cough and shortness of breath.
Gepar Sulfur - suitable for the treatment of swelling of the mucous membrane due to inflammatory or infectious diseases. Facilitates nasal breathing, eliminates coughing fits, hoarseness.
Aconite is an effective remedy for the first symptoms of respiratory failure. Relieves feelings of anxiety and anxiety, eliminates fever, coughing attacks.
C30 - quickly restores breathing and normalizes health. In case of severe shortness of breath and pain, take 3 peas at a time, followed by 30 minutes later. So, alternately every half hour until you feel better. This remedy it is not recommended to use it simultaneously with the methods of classical therapy.

Please note that most homeopathic preparations are used in the selection of an individual dosage. This allows you to quickly achieve the desired effect and restore normal breathing, preventing the development of side symptoms.

Operative treatment

Rapidly progressive swelling of the respiratory system can lead to suffocation. Surgical treatment is used to prevent this condition and restore normal breathing.

Tracheotomy - performed with critical symptoms. A small incision is made on the front of the neck and a tube is inserted into the airway. This relieves the attack and allows you to breathe calmly.
Intubation - this method is performed in a hospital setting. A special tube is inserted into the larynx, which widens its lumen, providing normal oxygen supply. The tube should be no longer than 3 days, after which it must be removed, as side effects are possible.
With severe puffiness, which has chronic course, carry out excision of scars and neoplasms in the laryngeal cavity, blocking breathing. Can be removed during surgery vocal cord with cartilage on one side.

In addition to the above methods, during surgical intervention, tracheoplasty, implantation of allocartilage and even the installation of a prosthesis for the laryngotrachea after tracheotomy can be performed.