What is laryngitis?

Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and surrounding area. It is a symptom of the common cold, bronchitis, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections.

There are two forms of laryngitis, acute and chronic. Acute laryngitis occurs suddenly and does not last long. Laryngitis is called chronic if the hoarseness in your throat lasts over a long period.

How does it occur?

Acute laryngitis is usually caused by a virus but can result from a bacterial infection. Chronic laryngitis can be caused by heavy smoking, overuse of the voice by speaking or singing loudly, coughing violently, or exposure to chemical irritants.

What are the symptoms?

Symptoms for both acute and chronic laryngitis include:

• low, raspy voice and hoarseness

• dry cough (no mucus)

• wheezing

• sensation of dry throat

• little or no pain

• weakening voice as the day progresses.

How is it diagnosed?

The doctor will review your symptoms and examine you. If necessary, a specialist will look at your voice box and surrounding area with a laryngoscope (an instrument with a headlight and warmed mirror). Your doctor will also examine your thyroid (gland located near the voice box) and the lymph glands in your neck, and note the quality of your voice. Lab tests and x-rays may be done.

How is it treated?

If you smoke, your doctor will advise you to stop immediately. You will also be told to rest your voice as much as you can and to use a pain reliever. In addition, your doctor may prescribe a topical steroid spray and humidified warm or cool air.

How long will the effects last?

When acute laryngitis is caused by a virus, it usually disappears without treatment.

If you have chronic laryngitis, your condition should improve with a week of rest. If you have throat nodules, surgery may be required. Hoarseness that lasts more than 3 weeks must be evaluated to rule out other diseases.

How can I take care of myself?

Follow the treatment plan prescribed by the doctor. In addition, you can:

• Avoid breathing irritating smoke, dust, and fumes.

• Rest or decrease your activities.

• Avoid becoming overheated or fatigued.

• Get as much sleep as possible.

• Rest your voice as much as possible.

• Drink extra fluids (water, fruit juice, tea).

• Take hot, steamy showers and breathe in the moist air, or breathe through a hot, moist towel.

• Use a cool-mist humidifier at home to increase moisture in the air.

• Stop smoking.

What can I do to help prevent laryngitis?

Staying healthy and getting plenty of rest can help you recover from the conditions that cause laryngitis. Also:

• Stop smoking and avoid exposure to others' smoke.

• Keep your home well humidified.

• Drink plenty of warm liquids.

• Avoid vocal strain by not yelling, screaming, or talking loudly, particularly in noisy settings.