Definition

• Viral infection of the voicebox (larynx) and vocal cords

Health Information

Symptoms

• Voice (or cry) is raspy and deeper than usual
• If hoarseness is severe, the child can do little more than whisper
• Cough is often present
• Fever may also occur

Cause

• Most laryngitis in children is caused by a virus. It’s usually part of a cold.

Care Advice

1. Overview:
   • Most hoarseness is part of a cold.
   • It means the vocal cords are irritated and swollen.
   • Here is some care advice that should help.
2. Warm Liquids:
   • Age over 1 year. Can sip warm fluids such as chicken broth or apple juice.
   • Age over 6 years. Can also suck on cough drops or hard candy. Butterscotch seems to help.
   • Age over 8 years. Can also gargle. Use warm water with a little table salt added. A liquid antacid can be added instead of salt. Use Mylanta or the store brand. No prescription is needed.
3. Rest the Voice:
   • Avoid yelling and screaming. (Reason: causes vocal cord strain.)
   • Have your child try to talk as little as possible. He or she can also write notes for a few days.
   • Also, avoid clearing the throat. (Reason: Can make hoarseness worse.)
4. Fever:
   • For fevers above 102° F (39° C), give acetaminophen (such as Tylenol) or ibuprofen. Note: Lower fevers are important for fighting infections.
   • For ALL fevers: Keep your child well hydrated. Give lots of cold fluids.
5. Humidifier:
   • If the air in your home is dry, use a humidifier. Reason: Dry air makes hoarseness worse.
6. Avoid Tobacco Smoke:
   • Tobacco smoke makes hoarseness and coughing much worse.
7. What to Expect:
   • Hoarseness from viral laryngitis lasts 1-2 weeks.
8. Return to School:
   • Your child does not need to miss any school for a hoarse voice.
   • Your child can go back to school after the fever is gone.

Call Your Doctor If

• Trouble breathing or swallowing occurs
• Hoarseness lasts over 2 weeks
• You think your child needs to be seen
• Your child becomes worse

Author: Barton Schmitt MD, FAAP

Copyright 2000-2020 Schmitt Pediatric Guidelines LLC

Disclaimer: This health information is for educational purposes only. You the reader assume full responsibility for how you choose to use it. The information contained in this handout should not be used as a substitute for the medical care and advice of your pediatrician. Listing of any resources does not imply an endorsement.

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