CHILD’S DISORDERS: HOARSENESS AND MOUTH ULCERS

May 21st, 2009

HOARSENESS

Hoarseness in children is usually the result of inflammation of the voice box (laryngitis) or throat. This is usually due to infection with a virus. The child may also have a fever and a cough.

There is no specific treatment, but encouraging your child to speak as little as possible and to drink plenty of fluids, can ease the symptoms. Paracetamol, used according to directions, may soothe a sore throat. The voice usually returns after a few days.

MOUTH ULCERS

Cause

Mouth ulcers are tiny little breaks in the lining of the mouth or on the tongue, which are thought to be caused by a virus. They occur more frequently when your child has been ill, or fatigued, as well as during periods of stress.

Clinical features

Round, white sores are visible on the lining of the mouth or cheeks, or on the surface of the tongue and these can be quite painful, especially if salty or spicy foods are eaten. Your child may refuse food for a short while.

Treatment

Mouth ulcers usually clear up within a week without any specific treatment. If your child is distressed by the stinging pain, try applying a mouth gel to the area. These are available over the counter from the chemist.

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