Since the beginning of winter, the incidence rate of influenza has been increasing. In addition to the typical high fever, some children will show acute laryngitis and bark like cough. Acute pharyngitis can cause swelling of the larynx, leading to laryngeal obstruction and even suffocation, and is listed as one of the pediatric emergencies. Parents should not take it lightly. The common causes of acute laryngitis in children are narrowing of the larynx compared to adults, softer cartilage, abundant submucosal and lymphatic vessels, incomplete cough function, and poor immune function, making them more susceptible to acute laryngitis. The common causes of acute laryngitis are as follows: infection factors. Viral and bacterial infections are one of the most common causes of acute laryngitis, such as rhinovirus, coronavirus, influenza virus, adenovirus, streptococcus, staphylococcus, etc., which can directly invade the laryngeal mucosa and cause inflammation. Improper use of voice for prolonged periods of speaking, shouting, singing, etc. can cause frequent vibration and friction of the vocal cords, leading to congestion and swelling of the vocal cord mucosa, and causing pharyngitis. Children may also suffer from loud crying and other causes. Environmental factors such as air pollution and dry, cold climates can stimulate the mucous membrane of the throat, reducing its resistance and causing pharyngitis. Other factors such as allergies to food, medication, pollen, dust mites, etc. can cause swelling and inflammation of the throat mucosa, leading to pharyngitis. In addition, gastric acid reflux to the esophagus and trauma are also risk factors for acute pharyngitis. If these symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately. If a child develops hoarseness, barking like cough, or even difficulty breathing, be alert to the occurrence of acute laryngitis. Parents can do some simple tests at home to assess their throat condition. The water test requires children to drink warm water in small sips. If coughing or swallowing pain occurs while drinking water, there may be inflammation or swelling in the throat. The quiet observation method allows the child to lie flat and rest for 5 minutes, observing whether there is a "throat snoring sound" or abnormal abdominal movements during breathing. If hoarseness persists for more than 3 days, accompanied by difficulty breathing or no improvement after treatment, it is necessary to seek medical attention promptly at a pediatric or otolaryngology department. Special attention: Infantile pharyngitis may progress rapidly. Once there is an inspiratory larynx or cyanosis of the lips, immediate medical attention should be sought to avoid delaying the condition. How to treat acute pharyngitis? When parents notice symptoms such as hoarseness, barking like cough, and difficulty breathing in their children, they should not take medication on their own and seek medical attention promptly to avoid delaying the condition. Nebulization therapy is the preferred treatment method for nebulized inhalation of glucocorticoids, which rapidly reduces laryngeal mucosal edema. Oxygen therapy can improve hypoxia in children with conditions such as holding their breath and cyanosis around their mouth. When treating severe laryngeal obstruction with medication, intravenous steroids or adrenaline may be required, and antibiotics may be used when combined with bacterial infections. Other treatments may require tracheotomy to save life when the condition is severe and life-threatening. (New Society)