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Laryngitis – Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, most commonly caused by viral infections, vocal strain, or irritants, and is characterized by hoarseness or loss of voice.

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Things worth knowing about "Laryngitis"

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, most commonly caused by viral infections, vocal strain, or irritants, and is characterized by hoarseness or loss of voice.

What is Laryngitis?

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane lining the larynx (voice box). It can occur in an acute or chronic form and affects people of all ages. The most recognizable symptom is hoarseness, which can progress to a complete loss of voice (aphonia). In most cases, acute laryngitis is a mild condition that resolves on its own within one to two weeks.

Causes

Laryngitis can be triggered by a range of infectious and non-infectious factors:

Viral infections: The most common cause, including common cold viruses (rhinoviruses), influenza viruses, and adenoviruses.
Bacterial infections: Less frequent; may involve streptococci or Haemophilus influenzae.
Vocal overuse: Prolonged loud speaking, shouting, or singing.
Smoking and alcohol: Chronic irritants that damage the laryngeal mucosa.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid rising into the throat can cause reflux laryngitis.
Allergens and irritants: Dust, chemicals, dry air, or pollutants.
Chronic vocal strain: Common among teachers, singers, and public speakers.

Symptoms

The symptoms of laryngitis vary depending on whether the condition is acute or chronic:

Hoarseness or complete loss of voice (aphonia)
Scratchy, dry, or sore throat
Persistent dry cough or throat-clearing urge
Difficulty swallowing
General feeling of illness and mild fever (in infectious cases)
In young children: barking cough and breathing difficulties (croup syndrome)

Diagnosis

Laryngitis is typically diagnosed through a clinical examination by a general practitioner or an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist. Diagnostic tools may include:

Laryngoscopy: Direct visualization of the larynx using a small mirror or an endoscope; the mucosa appears red and swollen.
Throat swab: To identify bacterial pathogens if a bacterial infection is suspected.
Imaging: Rarely needed, but may be used if complications are suspected.

Treatment

General Measures

For uncomplicated viral laryngitis, vocal rest is the most important treatment. Whispering should be avoided, as it places additional strain on the vocal cords. Additional recommended measures include:

Staying well hydrated with warm herbal teas and water
Steam inhalations to moisturize the mucous membranes
Avoiding smoking, alcohol, and vocal overuse
Throat lozenges or sprays to relieve discomfort

Medical Treatment

If a bacterial infection is confirmed, antibiotics may be prescribed. Decongestant nasal sprays and anti-inflammatory medications can provide additional relief. In cases of severe inflammation or allergic laryngitis, corticosteroids may be indicated.

Chronic Laryngitis

Chronic laryngitis requires addressing the underlying causes, such as smoking cessation, treatment of acid reflux, or voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist to prevent long-term vocal damage.

When to See a Doctor

Medical attention should be sought in the following situations:

Hoarseness lasting longer than 3 weeks
Difficulty breathing or stridor (a high-pitched breathing sound)
High fever or severe difficulty swallowing
Blood in the sputum or coughed-up material
Symptoms in young children presenting with croup-like barking cough

References

Dworkin JP. Laryngitis: types, causes, and treatments. Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America. 2008;41(2):419-436. PubMed PMID: 18328379.
Feierabend RH, Shahram MN. Hoarseness in Adults. American Family Physician. 2009;80(4):363-370.
World Health Organization (WHO): Acute Respiratory Infections. WHO Technical Report Series. Geneva (2019).

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