In most cases, the narrowing of the lumen of the larynx in young children is due to laryngotracheitis, a disease in which the larynx and the initial sections of the trachea become inflamed. This pathology is usually called by different medical terms: false croup, acute laryngitis or obstructive stenosing laryngotracheobronchitis.
Subglottic laryngitis (false croup) is called laryngeal edema of a non-inflammatory nature. Acute laryngotracheitis is a consequence of acute respiratory viral infections, leading to difficulty in children breathing through the larynx. When acute laryngotracheitis is not subject to adequate treatment, or when the mucous membrane of the larynx is injured, a complication occurs, which is called “obstructive stenosing laryngotracheobronchitis”.
Why do children have a narrowing of the lumen of the larynx and trachea? The reason for this is swelling and infiltration of the mucous membrane of the larynx and trachea, as well as spasm of their muscles. When air is exhaled through the narrowed lumen of the larynx, a characteristic cough occurs, which is called “barking”. With an inflammatory lesion of the vocal cords, voice formation is disturbed and the sick child stops speaking.
Symptoms of laryngotracheitis in children
In children, the leading symptoms of laryngotracheitis are difficulty breathing, coughing, and hoarseness. Most often, the onset of the disease is sudden. The first symptoms appear at night, when the child wakes up from a “barking cough”, his breathing becomes hysterical due to the beginning swelling of the larynx. Sometimes warm milk and hot foot baths help to relieve the child’s condition, but more often special medications and inpatient treatment are needed. It is very important to differentiate laryngotracheitis from other diseases, the symptom of which is the narrowing of the larynx.
False croup, found in young children, is usually manifested by coughing fits, indrawing of the epigastric region, sore throat, and fever. Attacks can last up to 30 minutes, after which the child has sweating and weakness, drowsiness.
Treatment of laryngotracheitis in children
In severe cases, the treatment of laryngotracheitis in children should take place in a hospital, because stenosis of the larynx can lead to asthma attacks. In rare cases, a tracheotomy may even be necessary.
In general, the treatment of acute laryngotracheitis in compliance with all norms takes no more than two weeks. The child must observe the voice mode: be silent more, and if necessary, say something – point with a finger or draw. Play a game with him, explain that according to the rules he should not talk – for kids this will be more effective than simple explanations.
Do not forget also that laryngotracheitis requires a special sparing diet.
Eliminate cold, hot, spicy, salty foods and any foods that can damage an inflamed larynx from your baby’s diet. It is recommended to give the child alkaline-oil inhalations with mineral water and essential oils (especially peach), to give antihistamines. All medicines must be prescribed by a doctor.
Do not forget also that a sick child needs a favorable microclimate: the air in the room should be made warm and humid. How to do it without special equipment? Hang towels or sheets soaked in warm water on batteries; take the baby in your arms and sit with him in the bathroom, after opening the hot water tap. Warm steam will significantly improve the condition of a sick child, facilitate breathing and soothe coughing fits.