Question

1) Epiglottitis is a condition in which the epiglottis is inflamed. It is commonly caused by bacterial infection. Explain why this type of infection is life threatening.

2) Pneumonia is an infectious disease in which fluid accumulates in the alveoli, patients who are diagnosed with pneumonia are monitored for their oxygen saturation
levels. describe how pneumonia could affect the amount of oxygen in the blood.

Answer 1

Bacterial pneumonia is life-threatening because it impairs gas exchange in the lungs, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. Epiglottitis can be life-threatening because it can obstruct the airway, causing difficulty in breathing.

Step-by-step explanation:

Bacterial pneumonia is a life-threatening condition because it causes inflammation and fluid accumulation in the alveoli, which are responsible for gas exchange in the lungs. When the alveoli are filled with fluid, oxygen cannot effectively enter the bloodstream, leading to a decrease in oxygen levels in the blood. This can result in respiratory distress and potentially lead to organ failure or death.

Similarly, epiglottitis is a serious condition because it involves inflammation of the epiglottis, a flap of cartilage that covers the larynx during swallowing. When the epiglottis is inflamed, it can obstruct the airway and cause difficulty in breathing. If left untreated or if there is a complete blockage of the airway, epiglottitis can be life-threatening.