Hoarseness
What is hoarseness?
Hoarseness is when your child's voice is raspy. If it is severe,
your child can do little more than whisper. A cough is often
associated with the hoarseness.
What is the cause?
Hoarseness is usually caused by a cold or croup virus (laryngitis)
or overuse of the vocal cords (for example, yelling and
screaming). Allergies to dust, chemicals, or pollutants can also
cause a raspy voice from sticky mucus.
How long will it last?
Hoarseness usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Repeated voice strain (for
example, from yelling) can cause thickening of the cords and a
slow recovery.
How can I take care of my child?
Your child should gargle with warm water and suck on hard candy or
cough drops several times a day. Younger children can sip warm
liquids like apple juice. If the air in your home is dry, use a
humidifier. Don't allow anyone to smoke around children. Encourage
your child to rest his voice and avoid the voice strain that comes
from yelling and screaming. Encourage him to talk as little as
possible for a few days. If the hoarseness gets really bad, have
him whisper or write notes.
When should I call my child's healthcare provider?
Call IMMEDIATELY if:
- Your child has trouble breathing.
- Your child starts acting very sick.
Call during office hours if:
- The hoarseness continues for more than 2 weeks.
- You have other concerns or questions.
Written by B.D. Schmitt, MD, author of "Your Child's Health," Bantam Books.
Published by
RelayHealth.
Last modified: 2007-03-15
Last reviewed: 2008-06-09
This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to
change as new health information becomes available. The
information is intended to inform and educate and is not a
replacement for medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or
treatment by a healthcare professional.
� 2009 RelayHealth and/or its affiliates. All Rights Reserved.