Warning Signs Of Ludwig's Angina

Neck Swelling Or Redness

When an infection of the lower back molars travels down into the gums and past the base of the mouth, it can continue to spread into the tissues of the neck. The same swelling process that happens to the tongue will also happen with the neck, but on a much bigger scale. The blood vessels involved in the inflammatory response to the infection in the sublingual, submandibular, and sub-maxillary spaces are larger and have more surface area. This means when they dilate and allow increased permeability, there is going to be more fluids or more edema, white blood cells, and proteins moving out of the vessels and into the infected tissues of the neck. Neck swelling or redness is almost always physically noticeable, and often will be the symptom that will push individuals to seek medical treatment. Swelling of the neck causes problems with jaw movement, chewing, swallowing, and breathing. Untreated Ludwig's angina can lead to a life-threatening airway obstruction that can cause death from the lack of oxygen delivery to the brain and heart.

Continue reading to learn more about what can indicate Ludwig's angina now.