Causes of Hoarseness in Children

Generally, a child's hoarse voice may be caused by speaking loudly, improper diet, upper respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis, influenza, or other reasons. When experiencing physical discomfort, treatment should be carried out according to a doctor's advice. Specific analyses are as follows:

1. Speaking too loudly

Children who frequently speak loudly or shout for prolonged periods may experience excessive vibration and friction of the vocal cords, leading to vocal cord congestion and swelling, which results in hoarseness. Reducing talking time, avoiding loud shouting, and allowing the vocal cords to rest can help. Drinking plenty of water to keep the throat moist is also recommended.

2. Improper diet

Consuming excessive spicy or irritating foods and beverages—such as spicy snacks, candies, and carbonated drinks—can irritate the mucous membranes of the throat, triggering inflammation and causing hoarseness. It is advisable to adjust the diet by avoiding spicy and irritating foods and instead consuming light, hydrating foods.

3. Upper respiratory tract infection

Upper respiratory tract infections, caused by viral or bacterial infections (such as the common cold), lead to inflammation of the upper airway. This causes vocal cord congestion and swelling, resulting in hoarseness, possibly accompanied by symptoms like coughing and runny nose. Treatment may include medications such as Pudilan Xiaoyan Oral Liquid, Roxithromycin Granules, or Amoxicillin Granules, as prescribed by a doctor.

4. Pharyngitis

Pharyngitis is usually caused by bacterial or viral infections or environmental irritants, leading to inflammation of the pharynx that affects the vocal cords and causes hoarseness. Symptoms may also include sore throat and dryness. Under medical guidance, treatments may include Qinghou Liyan Granules, Azithromycin Dispersible Tablets, or Penicillin V Potassium Tablets.

5. Influenza (flu)

Influenza is caused by infection with the influenza virus, leading to respiratory inflammation. The inflammation affects the vocal cords, causing hoarseness, along with symptoms such as high fever, cough, and runny nose. As directed by a physician, treatment may involve medications like Qingre Jiedu Granules, Paracetamol Tablets, or Pediatric Para-Acetaminophen and Chlorpheniramine Maleate Granules.

To prevent hoarseness in children, it is important to control speaking volume, avoid spicy and irritating foods, maintain a clean environment, prevent colds, and strengthen immunity through balanced nutrition and moderate exercise.