Overview

Tracheitis is the inflammation of the trachea, or windpipe, typically caused by a bacterial or viral infection. Symptoms include coughing, difficulty breathing, fever, and a hoarse voice. This condition can be serious, especially in young children, and may require medical intervention to relieve symptoms and prevent complications. It happens because small windpipes of children are more prone to infection due to damaging environmental elements. The problem can be characterised by cold, cough, fever, and wheezing symptoms.

If the issue grows severe, the affected kid may experience a blue tinge on the lips, nails, and skin, indicating low oxygen levels. Failing to treat this medical issue timely can lead to life-threatening situations.

Causes of Tracheitis

Mentioned below are some of the reasons for the issues faced by the trachea:

- Bacterial Infection- One of the significant causes of tracheitis is infection caused due to bacteria. Different types of bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Streptococcus pneumoniae, Moraxella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae type B (HiB), and Haemophilus influenza, damage the windpipe causing the infection. If the bacterial infection is not treated correctly, one may face severe health problems such as swollen face, runny nose, fatigue, and other similar issues.
- Weak Immune System- A weak immune system(which can occur due to various reasons) cannot face bacterial attacks. Individuals suffering from a weak immune system may be affected by different bacteria, causing harmful infections.

Symptoms of Tracheitis

Mentioned below are some of the tracheitis symptoms that help to identify the disease at the right time to begin the treatment:

- Severe Cough- Infection in the trachea leads to the narrowing of the windpipe, making breathing difficult for the affected individual. The affected person may cough severely and make the situation more uncomfortable. The condition may also be accompanied by pain and itching in the throat.
- Breathing Problems- Children suffering from trachea issues may also face breathing problems. The affected person may also face heavy coughing, fever, pain in the throat, and other similar matters. Breathing problems may also lead to issues such as chest pain and other similar problems.
- High Fever- High fever is also one of the symptoms of trachea infection. The bacterial infection damage the immunity of the affected child. The affected individual may also suffer from other issues such as severe cough, pain in the chest and throat, and other similar problems.
- Blue Lips- A blue tinge on the lips and nails is also one of the symptoms of the health disorder. It indicates low oxygen levels caused due to heavy coughing and narrowed trachea due to bacterial infection. In case of such symptoms, it is advised to get professional medical help to lower the damage.
- Stridor- A high-pitched sound during inhalation can happen due to airway narrowing.
- Chest Pain- Pain or discomfort in the chest area might occur during breathing or coughing.

Diagnosis of Tracheitis

Mentioned below are some of the tests and methods used to identify the disease:

- Pulse Oximetry
- Laryngoscopy
- X-ray of Lungs
- Imaging
- Bronchoscopy
- Lab Tests

Treatment of Tracheitis

Mentioned below are some of the tracheitis treatment options that help to lower the damage caused due to the infection in the trachea:

- Intubation is a procedure in which a tube is passed through the airway to allow the affected person to breathe comfortably. The process also helps lower lung infection and eliminate bacteria-causing trachea infection. The surgery is a safe procedure for children and is performed under medical expertise to reduce damage.
- Laryngoscopy is a procedure to clear the airway from secretions and membranes obstructing breathing comfortably. The process involves inserting a tube in the airway by giving general anaesthesia to the person. The surgery involves using a small mirror and light to insert the pipe properly.
- Antibiotics- Different types of antibiotics are also helpful in killing the bacterial infection caused due to illness. Different types of antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, Ampicillin-sulbactam, Ceftriaxone plus nafcillin or vancomycin, and Clindamycin helps to get rid of the infection.
- Steam Inhalation- Inhaling warm, moist air can ease breathing and soothe the airways.
- Bronchodilators- In some cases, bronchodilators might alleviate breathing difficulties.
- Humidifiers- Using a humidifier at home can help keep the air moist, preventing further irritation of the trachea.

When to Consult a Doctor

You can also get in touch with the expert Pulmonology doctors at Narayana Healthcare based in your city to get immediate attention and medical support during injuries, health disorders or any other health concern.

Conclusion

Tracheitis is an infection of the trachea caused due to different types of viruses and bacterial infections damaging the airway. The medical condition occurs due to varying types of bacteria damaging the immune system. It can be prevented with the help of different kinds of medications and surgeries to clear the airway.

Reference Links

- https://www.narayanahealth.org/blog/ear-nose-or-throat-we-take-care-of-it-all/
- https://www.healthline.com/health/tracheitis
- https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-tracheitis-1192023