What is Laryngitis?
Laryngitis refers to inflammation of the vocal cords that often results in a hoarse or raspy voice. The most common cause of laryngitis in children is a viral infection. If infection is the cause, laryngitis is often accompanied by a fever, cough and/or runny nose.
Other causes of short-term hoarseness include:
- Vocal strain from yelling or singing
- Mouth breathing because of nasal congestion
If your child’s hoarse voice doesn’t improve after 5 to 7 days, other potential causes to consider include:
- Reflux
- Seasonal allergies
- Environmental irritant
- Medicines like inhaled steroids used for asthma
- Lesions on the vocal cord
- Chronic post-nasal drip
- Thyroid issues
Laryngitis Treatment and Diagnosis
Laryngitis is diagnosed based on history and physical exam. Since it usually gets better on its own after 5 to 7 days, treatment is supportive and includes:
- Drinking plenty of fluids
- Getting lots of rest
- Letting the voice rest as much as possible
- Warm salt water gargles
- Ibuprofen or Tylenol for any pain or discomfort
If symptoms do not improve, your child’s provider might refer you to an Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist for further evaluation. The specialist might use a camera to look at the vocal cords directly.
See a doctor in person if…
- Your child develops fever and worsening throat pain
- Your child’s voice doesn’t return after 5 to 7 days
- Your child isn’t drinking well
- Your child has a hard time breathing