How Missed Epiglottitis Took a Young Dad’s Life

The death of 29-year-old Michael Reynolds shows why knowing epiglottitis symptoms and emergency care is so important. Michael, from Boston, Lincolnshire, died only a day after being told he had tonsillitis. In reality, he had a dangerous condition that was blocking his airway.

First Visit to the Doctor

On 29 November 2023, Michael went to see a doctor because his throat was sore and swollen. He also had a cough that had lasted for months. The doctor gave him a nasal spray and arranged for a chest X-ray. He was sent home instead of being sent to the hospital.

Condition Got Worse the Next Day

By the next day, Michael’s health had gone downhill fast. He could not swallow food, water, or even his own saliva. He had a high fever and told the doctor that his throat felt like it was closing.
Michael and his wife asked if he should go to the emergency department. The doctor said it was tonsillitis and gave him antibiotics to take at home.

Collapse and Tragic Outcome

After collecting the medicine, Michael went home. Not long after, he collapsed and had a seizure. His wife Charlotte called an ambulance. He was taken to the hospital but sadly died the next morning.
A post-mortem showed that swelling from epiglottitis had blocked his airway. This stopped oxygen from reaching his body and caused a cardiac arrest.

What is Epiglottitis?

Epiglottitis happens when the small flap of tissue at the back of the throat swells up. This swelling can block the airway and make breathing difficult or impossible. The condition can get worse in just hours. Without emergency care, it can be fatal.

Signs to look for include:

Sudden and severe sore throat
Trouble swallowing or not being able to swallow at all
Drooling or spitting out saliva
High fever
Muffled or strange-sounding voice
Feeling like the throat is closing

What the Inquest Found

At an inquest, the coroner said there was a “missed opportunity” to send Michael to the hospital. Staff in emergency departments are more likely to spot epiglottitis symptoms and start urgent treatment.Ms Lal maintains that her goal is to share her own opinions, not to convince others or act as a healthcare provider.

A Family’s Message

Charlotte, now raising their baby son Jacob alone, said:

I had never heard of epiglottitis before. I hope by sharing Michael’s story, other people get the emergency help they need.

Conclusion

Michael’s story is a reminder that epiglottitis symptoms and emergency care should never be ignored. Sudden throat swelling, difficulty swallowing, drooling, and trouble breathing are signs to act on immediately. Quick treatment can save lives.

Source: Inputs from various media Sources

Priya Bairagi

Copy-Writer & Content Editor

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I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.