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.
Chronic laryngitis is treated differently, depending on the cause.
As mentioned above, if symptoms persist for longer than two weeks or if common treatments are ineffective, seek medical advice.