Laryngitis is a laryngeal infection that usually occurs in children between 3 months and 3 years of age and whose symptoms, if treated properly, last for 3 to 7 days. The characteristic symptom of stricture laryngitis is dry cough, known as a dog cough, which occurs due to increased mucus production and dryness, which can lead to mild to moderate obstruction of the airways.
This type of laryngitis is usually a consequence of colds or flu, so it is more common to happen in late fall and winter. The treatment is done according to the recommendation of the pediatrician and involves rest of the voice and intake of enough liquid.
Symptoms of Lung Thrush
The most characteristic symptom of stricter laryngitis is dry cough, popularly known as a dog cough, which usually worsens at night and can cause vomiting. Other symptoms are:
- Hoarseness;
- Mild or moderate obstruction of the airways;
- Difficulty breathing due to swelling of the larynx and vocal cords.
This type of laryngitis usually does not cause fever, inflammation or pain and is most often caused by contact with viruses such as Parainfluenza, Influenza, Respiratory Syncytial Virus or Adenovirus.
More rarely, stridulent laryngitis can occur due to respiratory allergies, gastroesophageal reflux, or enlarged adenoids, which is a set of lymphatic tissue that, when grown too large, can lead to breathing difficulties. Learn more about adenoid.
How is the diagnosis made?
The diagnosis of stricter laryngitis is made by a pediatrician through clinical evaluation, description of symptoms and presence of cough. It can be confirmed by visual examination of vocal cords and nearby areas. In addition, your doctor may order a laryngoscopy.
How to treat
The treatment of stricture laryngitis is not usually done with the use of medications, but rather by means of cold fogging, increased fluid intake to release mucus trapped in the airways, rest of voice as much as possible, and elevation of the bedside with cushions.
Analgesics are only indicated when there are other complications and antibiotics if there is a secondary bacterial infection. In more severe cases, with a threat of obstruction of the airways, great difficulty in breathing or pneumonia, the child may be kept under observation in the emergency or may even require hospitalization.
Home treatment
A good home treatment for strictuing laryngitis is to add a few drops of ginger extract in a hot tub to help release the secretions. After bathing, the child should be wrapped in a light towel or blanket and then lay her on the bed with her head raised by two or three pillows. Here are the benefits of ginger for health.
Prevention of stricture laryngitis
The prevention of striduling laryngitis can be done by using a water vaporizer or humidifier near the head of the child's bed for several nights in a row. You should also avoid breathing fumes, dust or irritating vapors, rest more, take a shower with hot water, to produce steam and breathe it.
