Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, commonly known as the voice box. It results in hoarseness, coughing, and a sore throat, and can affect both adults and children.

While the condition is usually caused by viral infections, it can also be triggered by other factors such as allergies, smoking, acid reflux, and even excessive use of the voice. In this article, we will focus on laryngitis in children, its causes, and the available treatment options.

Causes of Laryngitis in Children

The most frequent cause of laryngitis in children is a viral infection, typically the same virus that causes the common cold. Other viruses that can cause laryngitis include those that cause the flu, measles, and croup.

Bacterial infections may also cause laryngitis, but it is less common.

Allergies can also trigger laryngitis in children. When allergies such as hay fever or asthma cause an inflammation in the throat, it can cause a child’s larynx to become inflamed, leading to laryngitis.

Acid reflux, a condition in which stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, can also cause laryngitis in children, as the acid can also inflame the larynx. Another possible cause of laryngitis in children is overuse or misuse of the voice, which may occur due to shouting, lengthy talking, or singing.

Finally, environmental irritants that affect the throat such as smoking, pollution, and dry air can also lead to laryngitis in children.

Symptoms of Laryngitis in Children

The signs and symptoms of laryngitis in children can vary, depending on the severity of the infection. Some common symptoms include:.

Hoarseness, which may progress to loss of the voice
A dry cough
A sore or scratchy throat, making swallowing difficult
Breathing difficulties
Feeling tired and unwell

Treatment of Laryngitis in Children

In most cases of laryngitis, the infection will resolve on its own without the need for treatment. However, some children may need medical attention to alleviate their symptoms.

Below are some treatment options that can be used for children with laryngitis:.

Resting the Voice

Resting the voice is the first and most important step for treating laryngitis in children. Encourage quiet activities that do not require talking, such as reading, drawing, or watching television.

Also, try to limit the use of electronic devices that may cause the child to strain their voice. It is important to get enough rest and sleep, as well as staying hydrated, avoiding smoke, and maintaining good air quality.

Humidifiers or Vaporizers

Humidifiers or vaporizers that release cool or warm mist into the air can create a moist environment that can soothe the throat and reduce coughing. Be sure to keep the device clean and free of bacteria to avoid further infections.

Medications

Medications such as pain relievers and fever reducers, like acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help manage symptoms of fever, pain, and sore throat.

Cough medicines can also be used, but should be used with caution and only under the guidance of a qualified healthcare practitioner, as coughing is an essential part of the body’s healing mechanism and should not be suppressed unnecessarily.

Antibiotics

If the cause of laryngitis is bacterial, the doctor may prescribe antibiotics. However, as noted earlier, bacterial infections are less common causes of laryngitis, so antibiotic treatment is usually not warranted.

Prevention of Laryngitis in Children

Although laryngitis may be difficult to avoid entirely, there are some steps that parents and caregivers can take to prevent or minimize the likelihood of laryngitis in children. Some prevention methods include:.

Good Hygiene Practices

Instruct your child to wash their hands frequently, especially before eating or touching their face. Proper hand hygiene can help reduce the risk of viral infections that can cause laryngitis.

Disinfect common surfaces at home such as doorknobs, light switches, and phones, regularly. .

Avoiding Smoke Exposure

Keep your child away from cigarette smoke and other environmental irritants that can irritate their throat and lungs. If you’re a smoker, consider quitting or smoking outdoors and away from the child.

Staying Hydrated

Encourage your child to drink plenty of water and to stay hydrated, especially when they have symptoms of laryngitis. Moistening the throat will help relieve irritation and symptoms of dryness.

Reducing the Use of Electronic Devices

Limit your child’s use of electronic devices that require considerable speech, shouting or yelling. Encourage them to take periodic breaks, and use less noisy modes of play and communication such as reading, drawing, and creative play.

When to See a Doctor

Most cases of laryngitis in children can be treated at home with rest, hydration, and other symptomatic relief measures.

However, parents and caregivers should contact a doctor if the child has severe symptoms, including difficulty breathing, high fever, and refusing to drink fluids.

Seek medical attention if the hoarseness and sore throat persist longer than a week, or if the child is experiencing episodes of obstructed breathing, including wheezing and gasping when inhaling, which may indicate a more severe condition arising from laryngitis, such as croup or epiglottitis.

Conclusion

Laryngitis is a common condition in children, usually caused by viral respiratory infections. Other causes of laryngitis include irritants, allergies, acid reflux, and overuse of the voice.

Most cases of laryngitis can be treated at home with rest, hydration, and other symptomatic relief measures. However, if your child has severe symptoms or symptoms that persist for more than a week, a doctor’s evaluation is important to prevent further health complications.