Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx (voice box) which is located in your throat. Symptoms include hoarseness and loss of voice. Treatment mainly involves not talking, avoiding irritants, and breathing moist air from a humidifier or hot water. Show Most cases of laryngitis get better within a week or two. Laryngitis that lasts more than three weeks can indicate a serious underlying medical condition. General informationThe larynx is part of the upper respiratory tract (upper airway) that connects your mouth with your lungs. It contains your vocal cords, which you use to talk and sing. When the vocal cords become irritated or inflamed, they swell up, which distorts the sounds they produce. This results in the voice sounding hoarse or croaky and in some cases may barely be heard. CausesLaryngitis can be caused by many things, but most commonly involves an infection or injury to the larynx. The causes of acute (short-term) and chronic (longer lasting) laryngitis differ. Acute laryngitisMost cases of laryngitis get better over the course of a week or two as the underlying cause resolves, or is removed or minimised. Causes of acute laryngitis include: Viral respiratory infections, such as a common cold or flu Vocal strain or injury caused by shouting or talking or singing loudly, or for long periods Persistent clearing of the throat or prolonged coughing Bacterial or fungal infection. Chronic laryngitisLaryngitis that lasts longer than three weeks is considered to be chronic laryngitis. It is generally caused by exposure to irritants over time. Chronic laryngitis can result in vocal cord strain and injury or the growth of polyps or nodules on the vocal cords. Causes of chronic laryngitis include:
Signs and symptomsSymptoms usually appear suddenly and gradually worsen over two to three days. The duration of most cases of laryngitis is less than two weeks and probably won't require a visit to your GP. Common signs and symptoms of laryngitis include:
If laryngitis is associated with another illness, such as a cold, flu, throat infection (pharyngitis) or tonsillitis, the following symptoms may also be present:
When to see a doctor?You should go to an emergency room for urgent medical assessment if a child’s laryngitis is accompanied by:
You should see your GP if you have one or more of these symptoms:
DiagnosisYour GP will likely ask you about possible causes of your laryngitis including overusing your voice, smoking and alcohol intake, and allergies. They may also examine your larynx using a mirror to look for redness or swelling and may take blood and a throat swab to test for possible infection of your upper airways. You might be referred to an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist for additional tests, which could include:
TreatmentMost cases of laryngitis get better within a week or two without the need for medical treatment. Self-careThe following self-care steps and home treatments may relieve the symptoms of laryngitis, reduce the strain on your voice, and help the vocal cords to heal: What does a laryngitis cough sound like?The lining of the throat and larynx (voice box) becomes red and swollen. Your child's voice gets hoarse and they develop a cough that sounds like a bark. This is often worse at night. Your child may have difficulty breathing, and it may be rapid and noisy.
Does laryngitis cause dry cough?Tickling sensation and rawness in your throat. Sore throat. Dry throat. Dry cough.
Do you cough up mucus with laryngitis?Sometimes laryngitis may be more serious and may indicate laryngeal cancer. Several symptoms should cause a person to see a doctor: High fever with a sore throat. Coughing up yellow or green phlegm (possibly suggestive of bronchitis or sinusitis)
How do you get rid of a cough from laryngitis?Lifestyle and home remedies. Breathe moist air. Use a humidifier to keep the air throughout your home or office moist. ... . Rest your voice as much as possible. ... . Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration (avoid alcohol and caffeine).. Moisten your throat. ... . Avoid decongestants. ... . Avoid whispering.. |