Laryngitis in children
Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, the part of the airway where the vocal cords are located. In children, due to the anatomically narrow larynx, inflammation can quickly lead to difficulty breathing and a "barking" cough.
Laryngitis most often develops due to a viral infection (acute respiratory viral infection, influenza, parainfluenza), but can also be associated with allergies, vocal strain, or exposure to irritants (smoke, dry air).
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Main symptoms
Classic manifestations of laryngitis in children:
- Hoarseness or loss of voice
- Dry, "barking" cough, especially at night
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Runny nose, fever, signs of acute respiratory viral infection
- Sometimes difficulty breathing (stridor)
Table of symptoms
| Symptom | Description | When to be concerned |
|---|---|---|
| Hoarseness | Child wheezes, speaks quietly | Lasts more than 2 weeks |
| "Barking" cough | Harsh, sharp, irritating | Increasing, interferes with breathing |
| Fever | More common 37–38.5°C | Above 39°C, difficult to control |
| Difficulty breathing | Noisy inhalation, retractions | Any progressive worsening |
Warning signs (when to see a doctor immediately)
Call an ambulance immediately or go to the emergency room if:
- The child is having difficulty breathing, with a whistling or "wheezing" sound (inspiratory stridor) when inhaling.
- Skin retractions are visible above the jugular notch, between the ribs, or at the bottom of the neck when breathing.
- The child is restless, unable to articulate words, cries silently, or, conversely, becomes lethargic.
- Bluish discoloration of the lips or nasolabial triangle appears.
- Temperature above 39–39.5°C and poorly responds to antipyretics.
- The child refuses to drink or swallow, and drools.
Any of these signs requires immediate medical attention. medical attention—it could be croup or another acute respiratory condition.
Appointment to the doctor
Diagnostics
In most cases, the diagnosis of laryngitis is made clinically, based on complaints and an examination.
The doctor may:
- Examine the throat, nose, and ears, and listen to the lungs.
- Assess the respiratory rate and blood oxygen saturation (pulse oximetry).
- If necessary, order a complete blood count, swabs, and viral tests.
- In severe cases, consult an ENT specialist, possibly perform a laryngeal endoscopy in a hospital.
Treatment of laryngitis in children
Treatment tactics depend on the severity of the condition. For mild laryngitis, treatment is usually carried out at home.
Key areas:
- Drink plenty of warm fluids (water, compotes, warm tea – age-appropriate)
- Humidify the air (40–60%), ventilate the room
- Antipyretics for temperatures above 38–38.5°C (paracetamol, ibuprofen, depending on age)
- For severe edema or croup – inhaled or systemic glucocorticosteroids, inhalations with adrenaline, oxygen, which can only be determined by a doctor in the hospital.
Antibiotics are prescribed only if there are signs of a bacterial infection – their necessity is assessed by a doctor.
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General information
Home care and what not to do
Care Recommendations:
- Keep the child in an upright or semi-sitting position; do not force them to lie horizontally if breathing is difficult.
- Speak calmly, distract them, and do not provoke crying (crying increases shortness of breath).
- Ensure adequate fluid intake in small amounts.
What NOT to do:
- Do not expose the child to hot steam, as this can cause burns and increased swelling.
- Do not rub the chest and neck with harsh warming agents.
- Do not use essential oils or harsh inhalations without a doctor's recommendation.
- Do not give Unprescribed cough suppressants and "strong" throat sprays (may trigger spasms)
FAQ
How long does laryngitis typically last in a child?
Is it okay to go for a walk with laryngitis?
Are inhalations with a nebulizer necessary?
Is laryngitis life-threatening for a child?
Can laryngitis be treated solely with folk remedies?
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Causes and risk factors
Most common causes:
Risk factors: