How to prepare for a video visit about Acute Laryngitis

Audience: pediatric

Acute laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx) that often causes hoarseness or loss of voice in children. It usually results from a viral infection and tends to improve within a week. Preparing for a video visit about acute laryngitis can help you get the most from your appointment. During the visit, a healthcare provider will ask about your child's symptoms, such as cough, voice changes, or breathing difficulties. They may also observe your child's throat and breathing through the video. While telemedicine can help assess many symptoms, some situations may require an in-person visit. This guide helps you understand what to expect, how to prepare, and when to seek urgent care. Remember, this information is for education and not a substitute for professional diagnosis or treatment.

Red flags — go in person / ER

• Child has difficulty breathing or noisy breathing (stridor) — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child drools excessively and refuses to swallow — seek emergency care immediately.
• Child has a high fever (above 38.5°C or 101.3°F) and appears very unwell — seek urgent medical attention.

What telemedicine can do

• Assessment of mild to moderate hoarseness and cough.
• Providing advice on home care and symptom management.
• Determining if symptoms require in-person evaluation.
• Follow-up questions after initial evaluation.

What telemedicine cannot do

• Severe breathing difficulties or airway obstruction.
• Drooling with difficulty swallowing.
• High fever with signs of severe illness.
• Need for physical examination or emergency interventions.

What is Acute Laryngitis in Children?

Acute laryngitis is swelling or irritation of the voice box, usually caused by a viral infection. It often leads to a hoarse voice, loss of voice, or a dry cough. Children may sound different or have trouble speaking. The condition usually gets better on its own within a few days to a week.

How Telemedicine Can Help

During a video visit, the healthcare provider can ask about your child's symptoms and watch their breathing and voice. They can give advice on home care and when to seek further help. Telemedicine is useful for mild to moderate symptoms and for follow-up questions.

When to Seek In-Person Care

If your child has trouble breathing, is drooling, has a high fever, or looks very sick, they need to be seen in person quickly. These signs may mean a more serious problem that needs immediate treatment.

Preparing for Your Video Visit

Make sure your device has a good internet connection and camera. Have a quiet, well-lit space for the visit. Be ready to describe your child's symptoms, when they started, and any treatments tried. Have a list of any medications your child is taking.

After the Video Visit

Follow the healthcare provider's advice about home care and any medications. Watch your child closely for any worsening symptoms. If symptoms get worse or new symptoms appear, seek medical care promptly.

How to prepare for your tele-visit

• Ensure your device (phone, tablet, or computer) is charged and connected to a stable internet connection.
• Find a quiet, well-lit area where your child can be seen clearly on camera.
• Have a list of your child's symptoms, including when they started and how they have changed.
• Prepare to describe any treatments or medications your child has already received.
• Have a list of your child's current medications and any allergies.
• Be ready to show your child's throat or breathing if asked during the video visit.

After your tele-visit

• Follow the healthcare provider's instructions for home care, such as rest and hydration.
• Use any recommended medications as directed.
• Monitor your child's symptoms closely for any worsening or new signs.
• Seek in-person care if your child develops red-flag symptoms.
• Schedule follow-up visits if advised by the healthcare provider.

FAQs

What causes acute laryngitis in children?

Acute laryngitis is usually caused by viral infections, such as those from the common cold or flu viruses. It leads to inflammation of the voice box, causing hoarseness or loss of voice.

How long does acute laryngitis usually last?

Most cases improve within a few days to a week. If symptoms last longer or worsen, it is important to seek medical advice.

Can I give my child medicine for laryngitis?

Over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen may help with discomfort or fever. Avoid cough medicines unless advised by a healthcare provider. Always follow dosing instructions carefully.

When should I take my child to the emergency room?

If your child has trouble breathing, noisy breathing, drooling, refuses to swallow, or has a high fever and looks very sick, seek emergency care immediately.

Can my child go to school with laryngitis?

If your child feels well enough and does not have a fever, they may attend school. However, it is best to follow local health guidelines and your healthcare provider's advice.

Sources

1. Laryngitis — MedlinePlus, U.S. National Library of Medicine.
2. Acute Laryngitis in Children — American Academy of Pediatrics.
3. Laryngitis: Symptoms and Causes — Mayo Clinic.
4. Croup and Other Causes of Stridor in Children — Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your child's healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or before starting any new treatment. Telemedicine can be a helpful tool but does not replace in-person evaluation when needed.