keelzwelling

Keelzwelling, literally throat swelling, is a condition in which the tissues of the throat, including the pharynx and sometimes the larynx, become swollen. It can present with symptoms such as sore throat, pain on swallowing, hoarseness, muffled voice, and in some cases breathing difficulties, drooling, or a sense of throat fullness.

Causes of keelzwelling are diverse and broadly categorized as infectious, inflammatory, traumatic, or neoplastic. Infections are among the most common causes and include viral pharyngitis, tonsillitis, and bacterial infections such as streptococcal pharyngitis. Allergic reactions and angioedema can produce rapid swelling, sometimes with airway involvement. Trauma from injury or medical procedures, abscess formation such as a peritonsillar or retropharyngeal abscess, and tumors or growths in the throat are other potential causes. Systemic conditions that cause edema, such as heart failure or kidney disease, can also contribute.

Diagnosis relies on medical history and physical examination. Red flags include signs of airway obstruction (difficulty breathing, stridor, significant drooling). Diagnostic tests may include rapid antigen tests or throat cultures for infection, blood tests (such as CBC and CRP) to assess inflammation, and imaging (lateral neck radiographs or CT) if a deep neck infection or mass is suspected.

Treatment is cause-specific. Infections may require analgesia, hydration, and sometimes antibiotics. Allergic or angioedema-related swelling may need antihistamines, steroids, or emergency treatment for airway compromise. Significant throat swelling with airway involvement requires urgent evaluation by a clinician, and may necessitate airway management. Most cases improve with appropriate therapy, but severe or progressive swelling demands prompt medical attention.

Prevention focuses on vaccination where available, good hygiene, timely treatment of throat infections, and management of allergies. If severe symptoms occur, seek immediate medical care.