After the first two years of life, many children may show symptoms of laryngospasm. Parents should definitely know the main signs of this disease and the methods of its treatment. It will not hurt to take preventive measures.
How to recognize laryngospasm in children
Laryngospasm is a spasm of the larynx that can occur in children from the age of two. This disease has its own symptoms. Usually, with the onset of such a spasm, the muscles of the larynx narrow, as a result of which a sharp change in breathing occurs. In this case, the child's head is usually thrown back and whistling sounds are heard from the mouth. The skin becomes very pale. Sometimes even a bluish tint appears.
Also, laryngospasm is characterized by the release of cold sweats. The attack often lasts no more than a few minutes. Then breathing is gradually restored. In some cases, the child may even faint. These spasms of the larynx are characterized by vomiting, cramps in the limbs, and foaming at the mouth. And finally, in the most severe cases, asphyxia may even occur.
Laryngospasm treatment
First of all, it is necessary to provide the child with emergency assistance. It should consist in restoring breathing. Try to induce gag reflexes in the baby. Pat it lightly on the back or pinch a little on the tip of your tongue. Spray cool water on his face and try to keep the cool air flowing.
If an attack of laryngospasm occurs in a fairly old child, ask him to hold his breath after taking a deep breath. This can help relieve the cramp. Of course, all of the above measures may not be effective enough. Then you will need to bring a cotton swab dipped in ammonia to the child's nose. Let him inhale ammonia. Chloral hydrate enemas and warm baths sometimes help. With regard to intubation and tracheostomy, they are performed only in extremely severe cases.
Necessary prevention
The most important component of laryngospasm treatment is prevention. Preventive measures include constant walks in the fresh air (in a park, pine forest, near the sea). The healing air has a healing effect on the respiratory system as a whole.
Relaxing activities for children should be carried out periodically. This refers to massage and painting. You should select activities that will appeal to your child. You also need a balanced diet and constant intake of vitamins. Try to include in your child's diet plenty of foods fortified with calcium and other beneficial ingredients.
