Laryngitis is the inflammation and irritation of your voice box (larynx). It causes a hoarse voice and may be temporary or long-lasting.
Symptoms
- Hoarse voice
- Voice loss
- Weak voice
- Tickle in throat
- Raw sensation in the throat
- Sore or dry throat
- Dry cough
Do You Have Acute Or Chronic Laryngitis?
Most cases of laryngitis are acute and short-lived. Among these patients, the condition develops due to viral infections, vocal strain and bacterial infections. If your laryngitis lasts longer than three weeks, it’s considered chronic. This is caused by long-term exposure to irritants and may result in vocal cord strain, injuries and growths.
Common causes of chronic laryngitis include:
- Exposure to chemicals or smoke
- Acid reflux and GERDChronic sinusitis
- Prolonged alcohol use
- Voice overuse
- Smoking
Less commonly, chronic symptoms of laryngitis can be caused by cancer, vocal cord paralysis and bowing of the vocal cords.
Restore Your Clear and Healthy Voice
Moisten the Air
Running a humidifier or taking a hot shower can relieve your symptoms.
Rest your Voice
Give your larynx time to heal and avoid talking loudly and whispering, as both can strain your voice.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
This will prevent dehydration and soothe your throat.
When To See A Doctor For Your Voice Problems
Most cases of short-term laryngitis can be treated at home by simply resting your voice and drinking plenty of fluids. However, if your symptoms endure longer than two weeks, you will need to visit an ear, nose and throat doctor to identify the underlying cause.
In addition, you should seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Breathing difficulties
- A persistent fever
- Increasing pain
- Swallowing difficulties
- Coughing up blood
