Epiglottitis

Epiglottitis is an acute condition and, though very severe (especially so in children), if the patient is treated appropriately the prognosis is excellent for a quick and complete recovery. Other than in unvaccinated or immunocompromised individuals, there is no theoretical increased risk for future episodes of this disease.

Untreated infection

There are numerous sequelae of not treating an infectious process that causes airway obstruction. These include: death, mediastinitis, neck space infection, necrotizing fasciitis, pneumonia, aspiration, and asphyxiation.