Voice Center - Laryngitis Laryngitis Laryngitis, or inflammation of the larynx, is probably the most common disorder affecting the larynx and voice. This inflammation may be of primary origin or secondary to other disorders. The classic symptoms of laryngitis are hoarseness and loss of voice. Occasionally, laryngitis may cause pain in the laryngeal area during swallowing or speaking. Acute laryngitis frequently accompanies viral or bacterial upper respiratory tract infections.
Chronic laryngitis can have a number of causes.
Among the most common are misuse or overuse of the voice and chronic irritation by smoke, dust, or other airborne irritants. Reflux of acid from the stomach is another frequent cause of laryngeal inflammation. Laryngitis can be secondary to a more serious condition such as benign or malignant growths. Therefore, if hoarseness lasts longer than two weeks, or is accompanied by a lump in the neck or blood-tinged sputum, medical attention should be sought. If a bacterial infection is the suspected cause, antibiotics may be prescribed.