Otolaryngological Emergencies

Acute epiglottitis is a life-threatening condition characterized by inflammation of the epiglottis. Common symptoms include hoarseness, stridor (a high-pitched sound during breathing), and dysphagia (difficulty swallowing).

The primary treatment for acute laryngotracheitis is humidified air, which helps to reduce inflammation and ease breathing. Antibiotics are not typically effective against viral croup, and steroids may be used in severe cases.

Peritonsillar abscess is a collection of pus in the space between the tonsil and the pharynx. Signs and symptoms include trismus, muffled voice, swollen tonsils, and severe pain on swallowing.

Sudden sensorineural hearing loss (SSNHL) is the most common cause of sudden hearing loss, characterized by a rapid loss of hearing in one or both ears. The exact cause is often unknown, but it may be related to viral infections, autoimmune disorders, or circulatory problems.

Vestibular neuronitis is an inflammation of the vestibular nerve, which is responsible for balance. Symptoms include vertigo (a sensation of spinning), nausea, and vomiting.

Trauma, such as nose picking or blowing the nose too forcefully, is the most common cause of epistaxis. Hypertension, blood clotting disorders, and certain medications can also contribute to nosebleeds.

Orbital cellulitis is a serious infection of the tissues surrounding the eye. Signs and symptoms include proptosis, periorbital edema, ophthalmoplegia, and pain.

The primary treatment for acute sinusitis includes antibiotics to clear the infection, decongestants to reduce nasal congestion, and nasal irrigation to flush out mucus and bacteria.

Meniere's disease is a disorder of the inner ear that causes episodes of vertigo, tinnitus (ringing in the ears), hearing loss, and a feeling of fullness in the ear.

Bacteria, such as Streptococcus pneumoniae and Haemophilus influenzae, are the most common cause of acute otitis media. Viruses and fungi can also cause middle ear infections, but they are less common.

Mastoiditis is an infection of the mastoid bone, located behind the ear. Signs and symptoms include swelling and tenderness behind the ear, ear discharge, fever, and headache.

The primary treatment for acute tonsillitis is antibiotics to clear the infection. Steroids may be used to reduce inflammation, and tonsillectomy (surgical removal of the tonsils) may be recommended for recurrent or severe cases.

Vocal cord paralysis can cause hoarseness, dysphonia, stridor (a high-pitched sound during breathing), and difficulty swallowing.

Food, toys, and coins are the most common objects aspirated by children. Foreign body aspiration can cause coughing, choking, and difficulty breathing.

A deviated septum is a condition in which the nasal septum (the wall dividing the nasal cavity into two halves) is shifted to one side. Signs and symptoms include nasal congestion, difficulty breathing through one nostril, facial pain, and frequent nosebleeds.