In this case report we describe a life-threatening oedema in a 20-year-old woman triggered by inhalation of nitrous oxide. On admission, flexible rhinolaryngoscopy revealed a rapidly progressing oedema of the epiglottis and arytenoid region. The patient was immediately intubated and transferred to the intensive care unit. Due to progression of the oedema a surgical tracheostomy was performed. On day six the canula was removed, and the patient could be discharged in good condition.