Inflammation of the larynx, as well as the upper sections of the trachea, is called laryngotracheitis. Pathology has several names: false croup, acute laryngotracheitis, acute stenotic laryngotracheobronchitis.
False Croup. This term is called allergic laryngeal edema of a non-inflammatory nature in children.
Acute laryngotracheitis. It includes symptoms of acute respiratory viral infections (acute respiratory viral infection). The main symptom of the disease in children is difficulty breathing through the larynx.
Stenotic laryngotracheobronchitis. The disease is a consequence (complication) of acute laryngotracheitis. It occurs due to injuries of the mucosa of the larynx, bronchi, trachea.
Laryngotracheitis in a child, symptoms and treatment
The main symptoms of laryngotracheitis are: hoarse breathing, rough cough, voice change. Usually the disease begins at night. The child wakes up, is naughty, he has a hoarse voice, "barking" cough, the inhalation time increases, breathing is difficult. If the child has developed laryngotracheitis, treatment is recommended in a hospital with the use of medications. The doctor should conduct an examination and make an appropriate diagnosis. When examining the throat in babies, he is not in doubt. The picture is as follows: the mucous membrane of the larynx is moderately hyperemic. Viscous mucous purulent formation is visible in the lumen of the trachea. Under the vocal folds are visible red rollers. They indicate swelling of the mucous membrane.
Before treating children, their condition can be alleviated by giving a warm drink, making hot foot baths. Such manipulations can stop the onset of edema. Does the child have laryngotracheitis? Treatment begins with first aid. The baby needs to be picked up, reassured. With laryngospasm, it is useful to induce vomiting, pressing on the root of the tongue with a spoon.
Existing edema under the fold of the larynx requires the use of antihistamines in the form of microscopic enemas, injections, rectal suppositories. If spasm attacks in case of laryngotracheitis disease do not go away for a long time, treatment at home did not bring the desired effect, urgent medical attention is required. A more severe course of the disease occurs against the background of an existing cold.
The origin of the disease is closely related to the pathogenesis of acute respiratory viral infection. The risk group mainly includes children five years old or younger. Coughing fits can last up to half an hour, with sputum discharge. With the disease, laryngotracheitis can not be postponed. But do not immediately rush into a panic, everything needs to be done calmly so as not to scare the child. It is useful to moisten the air in the room with the help of special appliances or to stay with the baby in the bathroom by turning on hot water. Even if you managed to stop the attack yourself, a pediatrician call is necessary. Symptoms may recur over time. Self-medication is strictly not recommended. A qualified specialist will help to avoid complications. How to treat laryngotracheitis in children? Only as prescribed by your doctor.
As a supplement to drug treatment, the child should be explained that you need to talk in a whisper. Exclude hot and cold foods from the diet. The temperature of food and drink should correspond to body temperature. The disease is dangerous with the following complications: obstructive bronchitis, bacterial otitis media, pneumonia, tonsillitis, purulent conjunctivitis.
You should always remember that you can not hesitate with the treatment of the child. His health is in the hands of his parents, together with a pediatrician. Timely access to medical institutions will prevent the negative consequences of laryngotracheitis, help maintain health for many years. Only a qualified specialist will give the right recommendations.