A case report involving a 17-year-old with what investigators believe is cannabis-induced thermal epiglottitis makes clear that completing a thorough patient history, physical examination and drug screening is criticially important.

Mayo Clinic explains that epiglottitis is a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the small cartilage “lid” covering the windpipe swells, thereby blocking air flow into the lungs. Among the situations that can lead to the swelling are infections and being burned by something hot, like hot liquids.