Laryngitis is an acute respiratory illness characterized by inflammation of the larynx, the lower part of the throat where the vocal cords are located. The vast majority of cases are caused by respiratory viruses. It generally affects children between 6 months and 6 years of age and is more common during colder months.

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Symptoms

It is characterized by a strong, dry cough that sounds like a dog’s bark (barking cough), often associated with hoarseness or loss of voice. Sometimes it is accompanied by a harsh noise when breathing in (stridor).

In some cases, inflammation of the larynx may make it difficult for air to enter, causing breathing difficulty (rapid breathing, visible rib retractions, chest sinking in). At the beginning of the illness, the child may have nasal congestion for a few days and possibly fever. Laryngitis typically worsens at night.

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Treatment

  • Some children improve by breathing humid air. Avoid dry environments at home; place containers of water on radiators. If you have a humidifier or vaporizer, you may use it. If not, run hot water in the bathroom to create steam and sit with your child (outside the shower) for 10–20 minutes.
  • Breathing cold air may improve symptoms, as cold air can reduce airway inflammation. During colder months, you may let the child breathe outdoor air while warmly dressed, near an open window.
  • If the child has a high fever, administer the antipyretic recommended by your pediatrician. Ibuprofen is often preferred due to its anti-inflammatory effect. Monitor the child’s breathing.
  • It is normal for your child to have a reduced appetite. Do not force them to eat.
  • Offer plenty of fluids.
  • Antibiotics are not needed, as this is a viral infection. Do not use alcohol-water neck compresses—they are ineffective and may irritate the skin. Do not give cough syrups or suppositories without consulting your pediatrician.

When Should I Seek Urgent Medical Care?

  • If the child has stridor (noisy breathing in) while calm.
  • If there are signs of breathing difficulty: increasingly rapid breathing, visible rib retractions, excessive abdominal movement, chest sinking in, or neck stretching while breathing.
  • If there is pale or bluish discoloration around the mouth.
  • If the child has difficulty swallowing or excessive drooling.
  • If symptoms worsen.

What Are the Consequences?

  • Most cases of laryngitis are mild, resolve on their own, and require only supportive care as described above.
  • In cases where the child has stridor or breathing difficulty, treatment with medications such as corticosteroids (potent anti-inflammatory drugs) may be necessary to reduce laryngeal inflammation.

How Can It Be Prevented?

Laryngitis is highly contagious, and there is no vaccine against it. The best way to reduce the risk of infection is frequent handwashing and avoiding contact with individuals who have respiratory infections.

Specialties:
  • Paediatrics