Laryngotracheobronchitis
Medical Questions » Illnesses » Laryngotracheobronchitis
| Name: Laryngotracheobronchitis |
| Also known as: |
| Viral or bacterial infection of the airways from the voice box (larynx) through the trachea to the larger airways (bronchi) of the lungs. |
Causes of Laryngotracheobronchitis
Usually a viral infection, but various bacteria may be responsible. |
Symptoms of Laryngotracheobronchitis
Hoarseness or total loss of voice, neck and chest pain, difficulty in swallowing, pain with breathing, shortness of breath, a productive cough and a fever. |
Tests for Laryngotracheobronchitis
Sputum may be cultured to identify the responsible organism and correct antibiotic to treat it. |
Treatment for Laryngotracheobronchitis
If bacterial, antibiotics can be used. If viral, time, rest, cough mixtures, aspirin and other anti-inflammatory medications to reduce inflammation and ease the fever.
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Complications of Laryngotracheobronchitis of its treatment
Untreated bacterial infections may progress to pneumonia. |
Likely Outcome of Laryngotracheobronchitis
Bacterial infections settle rapidly with antibiotics. Viral infections recover after five to ten days, but recovery is delayed in smokers. |
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