As winter approaches, more of us will be susceptible to colds and upper respiratory infections. Laryngitis is the most common symptom for all these type of infections. If you want to enjoy a healthy holiday season then prevention against these diseases is certainly the best method.

Laryngitis describes an inflammation of the larynx, commonly known as the "voice box". Air passing through the vocal cords allows us to speak, and inflammation of this area causes our voice to seem strained or hoarse. There are two types of laryngitis, acute (lasting days to weeks) and chronic (lasting months). Acute laryngitis is usually due to a viral or bacterial infection. Yelling or screaming also causes throat irritation and hoarseness. Chronic laryngitis is due to a prolonged hoarseness of the throat and may be due to a number of problems.

Symptoms Of Laryngitis

As most people know, symptoms are usually a hoarse, weak voice and a raspy, dry cough. There is usually no throat pain (unless trying to talk) or fever.

Diagnosis Of Laryngitis

Your physician will commonly diagnose the problem after a throat examination and reviewing your medical history. If the cause of the laryngitis is in question, a specialist may need to be involved so as to use a laryngoscope. This is a special instrument to see structures beyond your tongue.

Common causes of chronic laryngitis include

Smoking

Chronic cough

Chemical exposure (e.g. dust and pollen)

Gastro-esophageal reflux (GERD)

If hoarseness persists for more than a few weeks, your doctor may have to search for other causes of laryngitis. Although admittedly rare, benign or malignant polyps or growths in the throat can cause prolonged hoarseness. Associated symptoms such as blood-tinged sputum and a lump felt on the neck may also be a cause for concern and prompt medical attention should be sought.

Treatment Of Laryngitis

The most important aspect of treatment of acute laryngitis is voice rest. If suspected to be a bacterial infection, your physician may prescribe antibiotics, although a virus is usually involved in most of the cases of laryngitis. Over the counter decongestants, cough syrups, or pain relievers may also help. If deemed acute, the laryngitis should get better after a few days. Chronic laryngitis also improves with voice rest.

Prevention Of Laryngitis

It is important when you have a cold or upper respiratory infection to get as much as rest as possible. Avoid smoking or exposure to smoke. Cool-mist humidifiers in the home will be helpful, as well as inhaling steam in a hot shower. Adding ½ teaspoon of salt and warm water and gargling may aid with throat irritation. Drinking warm decaffeinated liquids is also vital for improvement.

Most cases of laryngitis improve within a matter of days. If the hoarseness persists over a few weeks, or if there is associated difficulty in breathing or worsening fever, see your physician immediately.

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