Stenosing laryngotracheitis in children

Under such a violation, as stenosing laryngotracheitis, often observed in children, is understood as inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx and trachea simultaneously, which is accompanied by the development of stenosis (narrowing of the lumen) of the larynx, which in turn is caused by swelling of the subglottic space.

How is acute stenosing laryngotracheitis manifested in children?

Recognize this disorder is not difficult because of its very specific symptoms. These include:

• barking cough;
• dysphonia (disruption of the ligamentous apparatus: rigidity, lack of voice);
• inspiratory stridor (frequent, intermittent breathing with attacks of suffocation).
• At the same time, the development of the disease occurs not simultaneously, and has stages, depending on which treatment is prescribed. However, first of all, when an attack develops, it is necessary to provide emergency help.

What if the child has an attack of acute stenosing laryngotracheitis?

As already mentioned above, the algorithm for providing emergency care for acute stenosing laryngotracheitis in children depends entirely on the stage of the disorder.

So, in the first stage, when signs of respiratory failure appear only with physical exertion (a feeling of lack of air, suffocation), it is necessary to act as follows:

• provide fresh air;
• if there is no fever, carry out distracting procedures: mustard calves for calf muscles, make a warm foot bath;
• warm inhalation with an isotonic solution of table salt;
• frequent, constant warm drink.

With stage 2 stenosis, when signs of respiratory failure are present and at rest, it is necessary:

• also provide access to fresh cool air;
• conduct the same distractions;
• to call an ambulance.

As a rule, in such cases, treatment of stenosing laryngotracheitis stage 2 in children is performed on an outpatient basis. Arriving home doctors inject 2% Papaverine hydrochloride, and for the allergic nature of the disease - antihistamines. The child is hospitalized. At stages 3 and 4 of the disease in children, emergency care is immediately and in a hospital.