What is the primary sign of epiglottitis?

The primary sign of epiglottitis is stridor, which is a high-pitched, wheezing sound caused by disrupted airflow in the upper airway. This symptom occurs due to inflammation and swelling of the epiglottis, leading to partial obstruction of the airway. Stridor is particularly significant in the context of epiglottitis because it indicates that the airway is becoming compromised, and prompt medical intervention is necessary to ensure that the patient can breathe adequately.

In cases of epiglottitis, while other symptoms like high fever, severe cough, and hoarseness may be present, they are generally not the key indicators of the condition. High fever may suggest an infection, but it is not specific to epiglottitis. Severe cough can occur with a variety of respiratory conditions and does not specifically point to epiglottitis. Hoarseness can also be seen in some cases, but the hallmark clinical feature that signifies an urgent need for evaluation and potential airway management is stridor. Thus, recognizing stridor as the primary sign is crucial for timely diagnosis and intervention in epiglottitis.