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Clinical Reference Systems: Pediatric Advisor 10.0
Spanish version
Hoarseness
DESCRIPTION
- The voice is raspy.
- If severe, your child can do little more than whisper.
- A cough is often associated with the hoarseness.
SIMILAR CONDITIONS
Croup
Hay Fever
CAUSE
Hoarseness is usually caused by a cold or croup virus
(laryngitis) or overuse of the vocal cords (for example,
yelling and screaming). Allergies can also cause a raspy
voice from sticky secretions.
EXPECTED COURSE
Hoarseness usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Repeated voice
strain (for example, from yelling) can cause thickening of
the cords and a slow recovery.
HOME CARE
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. 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.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN IMMEDIATELY IF:
- Your child has difficulty breathing.
- Your child starts acting very sick.
CALL YOUR CHILD'S PHYSICIAN DURING OFFICE HOURS IF:
- The hoarseness continues for more than 2 weeks.
- You have other concerns or questions.
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