Stridor

What is Stridor?

Stridor presents itself as an abnormal, high-pitched respiratory sound. This is predominantly noticeable during breathing and is commonly seen in children due to their shorter and narrower airways, making them more susceptible to obstructions.

Primary Causes of Stridor

1. Congenital Causes:

• Laryngomalacia: Floppy parts of the larynx may lead to partial airway obstruction. Thankfully, most children tend to outgrow this by 18 months. In severe cases, surgical intervention might be necessary.
• Subglottic Stenosis: Narrowing of the larynx below the vocal cords. It usually becomes noticeable a few months post-birth, particularly after a respiratory stressor like a cold. While some children outgrow it, others might need surgery.
• Subglottic Hemangioma: Rapid growth of blood vessels in early life, requiring surgery if the obstruction becomes life-threatening.
• Vascular Rings: When the trachea becomes surrounded by an artery or vein, leading to potential surgical need.

2. Infectious Causes:

• Croup: Viral-induced swelling, especially below the vocal cords, typically due to the parainfluenza virus.
• Epiglottitis: A bacterial infection leading to significant epiglottis swelling. It can lead to airway obstructions and requires immediate attention.
• Bronchitis: Inflammation of bronchi due to infections, or other agents like dust or smoke.
• Severe Tonsillitis: Inflammation of the tonsils, playing a pivotal role in fighting infections.
• Abscess in the Throat: These can critically narrow the airway if they grow too large.

3. Traumatic Causes:

• Neck Fractures
• Ingestion of Harmful Substances: For instance, acid or lye.
• Foreign Bodies: Such as a peanut stuck in the trachea, leading to potential suffocation.

Diagnosing Stridor

Dr. Daniel S. Samadi at our center is adept at diagnosing stridor. Primarily, a medical history and physical examination are performed. Since stridor often indicates another underlying issue, further tests, including blood tests, pulse oximetry, and sputum cultures, might be necessary.

Stridor Treatment

The treatment methodology for stridor hinges on various factors such as the patient’s age, overall health, and the root cause of the condition. Following a comprehensive evaluation, the best course of action is chosen which could range from treating the root condition, medications to reduce swelling, or even surgeries in severe cases.

If you suspect you or a loved one has symptoms of stridor, it’s essential to seek expert care immediately. Reach out to the ENT, Sinus & Hearing Care Center today for a thorough evaluation and customized care plan.