What is laryngotracheitis?
Laryngotracheitis or laryngotracheobronchitis is a variety of respiratory diseases of children, affecting the larynx or trachea. Most pathologies occur between 6 months and 3 years of age, being more common in boys, and is infrequent in children older than 6 years. They are more common when the cold weather begins, in the autumn and early winter months.
What are the symptoms of laryngotracheitis?
Laryngotracheitis is often mild, usually lasting less than a week, although symptoms may become severe and life threatening. Symptoms usually begin with nasal irritation and congestion, which progresses after 12 to 48 hours with shortness of breath, barking cough and hoarseness. Other symptoms may include fever, skin rash, conjunctivitis and even swollen lymph nodes.
Medical tests for laryngotracheitis
The best way to detect it is through the sound of coughing. In addition, a neck and chest X-ray may be required to confirm the diagnosis.
What are the causes of laryngotracheitis?
The most common cause is a viral infection that causes swelling of the larynx and trachea. The virus initially infects the nose and throat and then spreads to the larynx and trachea. Thus, the infection progresses to the trachea and makes it swollen, obstructing the available space through which air enters the lungs.
Can laryngotracheitis be prevented?
The main measures to prevent these diseases are:
- Do not smoke or avoid the smoke of other smokers.
- Drink plenty of water
- Avoid cleaning the throat
- Avoid upper respiratory infections (get an annual flu shot, wash hands frequently and avoid contact with people with respiratory infections).
How is laryngotracheitis treated?
Treatment depends on the severity of symptoms and the risk of aggravation. Children with no symptoms of severe laryngotracheitis are usually treated with conservative measures at home, although a child with moderate or severe symptoms at risk of worsening should be treated urgently.
What specialist treats it?
The diagnosis and treatment of laryngotracheitis should be performed by an expert in pediatrics.