Can't speak? Laryngitis Hoarseness & its Homeopathic Treatment Before delving into homeopathic treatment let us first discuss the conventional or allopathic treatment available. Allopathic approach to treat laryngitis Acute laryngitis gets better on its own within a week or so. Self-care with the help of home remedies will reduce the duration of the suffering. Chronic laryngitis whereas needs the help of medications as the associated causes needs to be dealt with. Medications used in such cases include the following: The antibiotics: In certain cases where the bacterial invasion is the cause, antibiotics help in giving some relief. But the cases where the problem has arisen due to viral invasion antibiotics don’t seem to help at all. Corticosteroids: Help in reducing the inflammation of the cords but fail to achieve complete cure. Homeopathic approach to treat laryngitis In my opinion, homeopathy should be the first choice of treatment in cases of laryngitis whether acute or chronic. The approach is holistic and individual specific. Proper and complete history taking of the patient itself reveals the underlying cause of the disease and then the treatment is advised accordingly. Let us see how homeopathy works in acute cases.

In acute cases of laryngitis remedies act wonderfully and quickly contrary to the belief that homeopathy acts slowly and gradually. One of the most common causes of the problem; that is virus is dealt well with the help of homeopathic remedies. Remedies prescribed boost the immune system of the body by creating unfavorable environment for that particular virus and provide long standing relief. There are no antibiotics and pain killers in homeopathy but remedies are capable to create such an atmosphere in the body where no harmful organisms can exist. Acute symptoms such as sore throat, dry throat and dry cough can be easily relieved with the help of remedies. If laryngitis is a result of overuse of the voice or trauma to the vocal cord then also homeopathy has specific remedies contrary to conventional treatment where prescription does not change according to the cause of the problem but remains same for everyone suffering from the same illness. For example, Aconitum napellus helps when there is hoarseness of sudden onset especially after exposure to cold, dry wind. Similarly we have Argentum nitricum which is used when there is overuse of the throat or voice like in cases of singers or speakers.

The dosage, potency and repetition of the above said remedies varies according to the patient’s susceptibility and sensitivity which is known best to the homeopathic physician only. Because prescribing remedies is a combination of art, science, logic and experience on the part of the homeopath. Homeopathic prescription is always tailor made according to a particular patient and not ready made like other system of medicines. The pattern of the disease in terms of occurrence, intensity and manifestation differs completely in every individual case so accordingly the remedy also differs for each and every individual case. People usually are seen suffering from laryngitis when there is a change in the season or there is change of place. Just at the start of it, one can immediately intervene and take the medicines as prescribed. Problem will resolve then and there without any side effects and without any chances of recurrence. Let us turn to chronic laryngitis now. Treating cases of laryngitis is a time consuming process but betterment is inevitable. Chronic laryngitis causes more discomfort to the patient as compared to acute one. In order to treat chronic laryngitis constitutional approach is considered in which deep constitutional homeopathic treatment is given to the patient.

While treating chronic cases the root or maintaining cause is also taken into account and should be eliminated. For example excessive alcohol consumption has to be stopped, smokers have to quit smoking, and singers have to stop singing for the time being. Causes like acid reflux which usually lead to chronic irritation of the throat and ultimately result in inflammation of the larynx need to be treated first to establish complete symptomatic relief. Symptoms such as pain in the throat, tickling sensation, sensitivity, roughness, hoarseness, cough and many more can be easily waved a good bye with the help of homeopathic remedies. Homeopathy is also a great help in old age chronic laryngitis when the vitality of the person is getting degraded and the risk of allergies and infections increases. The remedies help to boost immunity and help you fight the allergies and infections. To sum up all you need is a good homeopathy doctor, who could study your case properly and prescribe you the best suitable remedy according to your symptoms. For online treatment, you may follow the following steps at Consult now . *DISCLAIMER: There is no guarantee of specific results and the results can vary.

None of the remedies mentioned including services, mentioned at HomeopathicTreatment4U.com, should be used without clearance from your physician or healthcare provider. We do not claim to cure any disease which is considered 'incurable' on the basis of scientific facts by modern medicine. We assure you of the best possible efforts for those who apply for online treatment. However, please note that we do not claim to cure each and every case, nor do we guarantee any magical cure. The website’s content is not a substitute for direct, personal, professional medical care and diagnosis. What is laryngitis Larynx is the voice box which helps us to whisper, talk, shout, sing or scream. Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx), which is a hollow muscular organ forming an air passage to the lungs and holds the vocal cords. In laryngitis, vocal cords become inflamed or irritated. What are the types and causes of laryngitis Laryngitis may be short lived (acute) or long lasting (chronic). Acute laryngitis: Inflammation of the larynx for a short time where it gets better quickly after treating the related cause.

It lasts for almost a week or two but not more than that. Most cases of acute laryngitis are triggered by viral infection similar to common cold, bacteria, allergies, exposure to certain harsh chemicals or toxins and vocal strain caused by yelling or overusing the voice. Chronic laryngitis: Laryngitis that lasts longer than 3 weeks is known as chronic laryngitis. Chronic laryngitis is generally caused by exposure to irritants over time. Most common causes of chronic nature of disease is repeated attacks of acute laryngitis, excessive use of voice especially in dusty atmospheres, heavy tobacco smoking, mouth breathing from nasal obstruction, acid reflux, alcohol abuse, growths or tumors that develop on or around the vocal cords and chronic infection of nasal sinuses. Rare causes include cancer, bowing of the vocal cords in old age and vocal cord paralysis. What are the symptoms of laryngitis The symptomatic picture varies from patient to patient.

Following are the symptoms which are caused by laryngitis in general: Sore throat Tickling and rawness in the throat Irritating and painful cough Constant urge to clear throat Pain with swallowing Uneasiness in swallowing food or sometimes water Difficulty in speaking Hoarseness and loss of voice Pain when speaking Voice may sound raspy, deeper than normal, may break now and then Tingling sensation in the ear Dryness in the larynx with sensitivity extending to the chest Fever What are the complications of laryngitis In cases of laryngitis which are caused by bacteria or virus, infection may spread to other parts of the chest causing tracheitis, bronchitis, pneumonia if not treated properly. How is laryngitis diagnosed The disease is easy to diagnose by taking proper case history. The visual examination of the throat may be performed with the help of laryngoscope. There are two techniques used to finalize the diagnosis: Laryngoscopy Laryngitis  symptoms, management and treatment Overview When your voice vanishes Almost all of us have experienced laryngitis, a temporary hoarseness or loss of voice caused by minor inflammation of the larynx (voice box and vocal chords) and its surrounding tissues.

Laryngitis is inconvenient and can be uncomfortable, but it's rarely serious. Laryngitis is most common when there are epidemics of individual viruses going around, especially during late fall, winter, and early spring. Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections that begin as colds or sore throats and then travel down to the voice box, irritating the vocal cords and surrounding tissues. In young children, a similar infection can produce croup, along with its characteristic "barking" cough, or a more serious respiratory blockage called epiglottitis, swelling of the epiglottis, the thin flap covering the larynx. Fortunately, most common cases of laryngitis can be safely treated at home. Cases of viral laryngitis should disappear spontaneously within 10 to 14 days. Detailed Description The most obvious symptom of laryngitis is a hoarse voice; in more severe cases, you may temporarily lose your voice completely. You may also get a dry cough and a sore throat. There may be some pain with swallowing, and very rarely there can be difficulty swallowing or breathing. In rare cases, laryngitis may be accompanied by a fever or may be unusually painful.

In these cases, consult a doctor. Laryngitis usually lasts less than two weeks. Simple remedies, including resting the voice and drinking plenty of fluids can speed your recovery. However, continued misuse of the voice may cause the development of vocal cord nodules, small growths on the vocal chords, that can permanently distort the voice. By far the most common cause of laryngitis is a simple viral infection  like the common cold  of the upper respiratory pathways. Other medical causes include bronchitis, pneumonia, influenza, whooping cough (pertussis), measles, and diphtheria. Excessive use of your voice, allergic reactions, and inhaling irritants such as cigarette smoke are common causes of either acute (short-term) or chronic (persistent) laryngitis. The body parts involved include both the larynx  the voice box containing the vocal cords  and the upper part of the neck behind the Adam's apple. In most cases, the first and most noticeable symptom of laryngitis is an unnatural change of voice, such as hoarseness, or even a total loss of voice. The throat may feel raw or tickle. Symptoms vary with the severity of the inflammation.

Severe infections may result in fever, general malaise, and a sore throat. Bacterial infections like strep throat, and irritation from alcohol or toxic vapors, dust and smoke, and even hot beverages can cause laryngitis. Hay fever and other allergies can also cause vocal changes, including hoarseness or loss of voice. Screaming and yelling extensively can stress the vocal cords and sometimes lead to problems such as inflammation of the larynx and the growth of nodules that may endanger the vocal cords. Without treatment, these nodules may cause permanent voice distortion. Despite the inconvenience of losing your voice, and the discomfort of hoarseness and a sore or dry throat, most cases of laryngitis can be effectively treated on an outpatient basis without doctor visits. General measures to reduce discomfort for both acute and chronic cases include resting the voice, using cool mist humidifiers and steam inhalations, increasing fluid intake, and, sometimes, using analgesics. Always avoid smoking or secondhand cigarette smoke while you have laryngitis. Anyone with a hoarse voice that lasts longer than a week or two should seek medical advice. How Common Is Laryngitis? Laryngitis is a common condition affecting males and females equally.

Laryngitis affects all ages, although it is more common in children. Conventional Treatment Goals of Treatment Your doctor's treatment goals are to eliminate pain, to restore your voice, and to clear up any infection that may be present. Spontaneous recovery from viral laryngitis usually occurs within 10 to 14 days. Check with your doctor if you do not see any improvement within this time frame. Symptoms can be treated at home in several ways. The most important thing to keep in mind is that you must rest your voice completely to reduce stress on your vocal cords. Drink fluids and chew sugarless gum to help keep you vocal chords moist. Whispering is also very stressful on the vocal cords. If you use your voice intensively (for example, if you are a teacher or a singer) you must stop work to rest your voice and stay at home. Treatment Options If laryngitis is caused by a bacterial infection, your doctor will prescribe antibiotics. Viral laryngitis doesn't respond to these drugs and is self-limiting. Nevertheless, you can alleviate the uncomfortable symptoms of laryngitis while waiting for recovery. Home care is generally the most effective treatment.

Rest your voice, use a vaporizer, and increase your fluid intake. Warm liquids may be especially soothing. Health Care Professionals Who May Be Involved in Treatment The following health care providers participate in the management of laryngitis: Family medicine physicians Ear, nose, and throat specialists Internists Analgesics and antipyretics such as acetaminophen or NSAIDs (such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen) Cough medicine Erythromycin or other antibiotics prescribed by your physician Inhaled steroids may be useful in some cases Nexium Surgery Most cases of laryngitis are not severe and do not require surgery. In extreme cases, a surgeon may recommend vocal-cord stripping of hyperplastic mucosa and areas of leukoplakia. Monitoring the Condition Nonprescription drugs like acetaminophen, aspirin, and cough syrup may be appropriate and useful. Don't use your voice; give it complete rest. A cool-mist humidifier will increase air moisture and ease the constricted feeling in the throat. Hot, steamy showers may help as well. Avoid cold pills that contain antihistamines, as they may dry out your throat and increase hoarseness.

Stay well-hydrated; drink six to eight eight-ounce glasses of water a day. Consult a doctor if the laryngitis is accompanied by a fever or becomes acutely painful. If laryngitis lasts more than two weeks, be sure to call your doctor. With children, call the doctor immediately if your child feels very ill, has a high fever, or has difficulty breathing. Possible Complications Possible complications associated with laryngitis include the following: Chronic hoarseness Total breathing obstruction: may occur if laryngitis is part of a serious infection of the respiratory system; with children, epiglottitis may cause the epiglottis to swell and make breathing difficult Quality of Life For the most part, laryngitis will not alter your quality of life, so don't feel compelled to limit activity unless you are feeling especially tired. To help the healing process, avoid talking. Considerations for Women Pregnant women should only use antibiotics that will not harm the developing fetus. Considerations for Children and Adolescents Minimize a child's vocal activities. Discourage your child from shouting, crying, or singing, since these activities will only delay recovery.

Considerations for Older People Consider these if you are an elderly patient or caring for one: Since the immune system functions less effectively as people age, this may open the way for viral, bacterial, and other infections to occur Decreased nutrition, common among older people, can increase the risk of laryngitis With aging, characteristic signs and symptoms of many disorders are frequently changed or may be absent Last updated 27 May 2012 Synonyms Laryngitis | University of Maryland Medical Center Laryngitis Introduction When you have laryngitis, your larynx or voice box and the area around it becomes inflamed, irritated, and swollen. The swelling of your vocal chords causes them to make distorted sounds, so that your voice sounds hoarse. You may find yourself unable to speak above a whisper, or even lose your voice entirely. Laryngitis rarely causes serious problems in adults. It is usually caused by a cold or other virus and goes away by itself within 2 to 3 weeks. But it can cause complications in children, notably croup, a swelling of the throat that narrows the airways and causes a "barking" cough. Chronic hoarseness could also be a sign of something more serious.

Causes Certain viruses or bacteria can infect the larynx and cause it to swell. Usually, the virus comes from another illness, such as a cold, the flu, or bronchitis. Laryngitis can also occur from using the voice too much (singing or shouting). Chronic laryngitis can be caused by heavy smoking, excessive alcohol use, or acid reflux (gastroesophageal reflux disease or GERD), caused when stomach acid backs up into the esophagus. Signs and Symptoms For adults, laryngitis rarely causes serious problems. However, two conditions that may occur in children include: Croup, which narrows the airway passages, causes difficulty breathing, and leads to a "barking" cough. Epiglottitis, which is inflammation of the epiglottis, the flap of cartilage at the back of the tongue that closes off the windpipe when swallowing. If it swells, the child may have trouble breathing. Supporting Research Audera C, Patulny RV, Sander BH, Douglas RM. Mega-dose vitamin C in treatment of the common cold: a randomised controlled trial. Med J Aust.

2001;175(7):359-62. Barrett BP, Brown RL, Locken K, Maberry R, Bobula JA, D'Alessio D. Treatment of the common cold with unrefined Echinacea: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med. 2002;137:936-46. Belongia EA, Berg R, Liu K. A randomized trial of zinc nasal spray for the treatment of upper respiratory illness in adults. Am J Med. 2001;111(2):103-8. Botto H, Antonioli C, Nieto M, et al. Severe laryngitis associated to gastroesophageal reflux. Arch Argent Pediatr. 2014;112(1):78-82. Charuluxananan S, Sumethawattana P, Kosawiboonpol R, Somboonviboon W, Werawataganon T. Effectiveness of lubrication of endotracheal tube cuff with chamomile-extract for prevention of postoperative sore throat and hoarseness.

J Med Assoc Thai. 2004 Sep;87 Suppl 2:S185-9. Douglas RM, Chalker EB, Treacy B. Vitamin C for preventing and treating the common cold. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2000;(2):CD000980. Ferri: Ferri's Clinical Advisor 2016. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2016. Hirt M, Nobel Sion, Barron E. Zinc nasal gel for the treatment of common cold symptoms: A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. ENT J. 2000;79(10):778-80, 782. Jackson JL, Lesho E, Peterson C. Zinc and the common cold: a meta-analysis revisited. J Nutr. 2000;130(5S Suppl):1512S-15S. Kassel JC, King D, Spurling GK. Saline nasal irrigation for acute upper respiratory tract infections. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.

2010 Mar 17;(3):CD006821. Review. Kligler B. Echinacea. Am Fam Physician. 2003;67(1):77-80. Lindenmuth GF, Lindenmuth EB. The efficacy of echinacea compound herbal tea preparation on the severity and duration of upper respiratory and flu symptoms: a randomized, double-blind placebo-controlled study. J Altern Complement Med. 2000;6(4):327-34. Mahady GB. Echinacea: recommendations for its use in prophylaxis and treatment of upper respiratory tract infections. Nutr Clin Care. 2001;4(4):199-208. McElroy BH, Miller SP. Effectiveness of zinc gluconate glycine lozenges against the common cold in school-aged subjects: a retrospective chart review. Am J Ther. 2002;9(6):472-5. Melchart D, Linde K, Fischer P, Kaesmayr J. Echinacea for preventing and treating the common cold. [Review]. Cochrane Database Syst Rev.

2000;(2):CD000530. Paul IM, Beiler J, McMonagle A, Shaffer ML, Duda L, Berlin CM. Effect of honey, dextromethorphan, and no treatment on nocturnal cough and sleep quality for coughing children and their parents. Arch Pediatr Adolesc Med. 2007;161(12):1140-6. Pendleton H, Ahlner-Elmqvist M, Jannert M, Ohlsson B. Posterior laryngitis: a study of persisting symptoms and health-related quality of life. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. 2013;270(1):187-95. Prasad AS, Fitzgerald JT, Bao B, Beck FW, Chandrasekar PH. Duration of symptoms and plasma cytokine levels in patients with the common cold treated with zinc acetate. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Ann Intern Med. 2000;133(4):245-52. Rakel R, Bope E.

Rakel & Bope: Conn's Current Therapy 2008. 60th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders. 2008:61. Reiter R, Brosch S. Chronic laryngitis-associated factors and voice assessment. Laryngorhinootologie. 2009;88(3):181-5. Reveiz L, Cardona AF. Antibiotics for acute laryngitis in adults. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2013;3:CD004783. Roxas M, Jurenka J. Colds and influenza: a review of diagnosis and conventional, botanical, and nutritional considerations. Altern Med Rev. 2007 Mar;12(1):25-48. Review. Shah SA, Sander S, White CM, Rinaldi M, Coleman CI. Evaluation of echinacea for the prevention and treatment of the common cold: a meta-analysis. Lancet Infect Dis. 2007 Jul;7(7):473-80. Review. Erratum in: Lancet Infect Dis.

2007 Sep;7(9):580. Simasek M, Blandino DA. Treatment of the common cold. Am Fam Physician. 2007 Feb 15;75(4):515-20. Review. Turner RB. Ineffectiveness of intranasal zinc gluconate for prevention of experimental rhinovirus colds. Clin Infect Dis. 2001;33(11):1865-70. Turner RB, Riker DK, Gangemi JD. Ineffectiveness of Echinacea for prevention of experimental rhinovirus colds. Antimicrob Agents Chemother. 2000;44:1708-9. Vaezi MF. Laryngeal manifestations of gastroesophageal reflux disease. Curr Gastroenterol Rep. 2008;10(3):271-7. Van Straten M, Josling P. Preventing the common cold with a vitamin C supplement: a double-blind, placebo-controlled survey. Adv Ther. 2002;19(3):151-9. Yale SH, Liu K.

Echinacea purpurea therapy for the treatment of the common cold: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Arch Intern Med. 2004 Jun 14;164(11):1237-41. Version Info Last reviewed on 2/2/2016 Steven D. Ehrlich, NMD, Solutions Acupuncture, a private practice specializing in complementary and alternative medicine, Phoenix, AZ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission ( URAC's accreditation program is an independent audit to verify that A.D.A.M. follows rigorous standards of quality and accountability. A.D.A.M. is among the first to achieve this important distinction for online health information and services. Learn more about A.D.A.M.'s editorial policy, editorial process and privacy policy. A.D.A.M. is also a founding member of Hi-Ethics and subscribes to the principles of the Health on the Net Foundation ( ) The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition.

A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2013 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited. Laryngitis | definition of laryngitis by Medical dictionary Laryngitis | definition of laryngitis by Medical dictionary Related to laryngitis: pharyngitis , bronchitis Laryngitis Laryngitis is caused by inflammation of the larynx, resulting in hoarseness of the voice. Description When air is breathed in (inspired), it passes through the nose and the nasopharynx or through the mouth and the oropharynx. These are both connected to the larynx, a tube made of cartilage. The vocal cords, responsible for setting up the vibrations necessary for speech, are located within the larynx. The air continues down the larynx to the trachea.

The trachea then splits into two branches, the left and right bronchi (bronchial tubes). These bronchi branch into smaller air tubes which run within the lungs, leading to the small air sacs of the lungs (alveoli). Either food, liquid, or air may be taken in through the mouth. While air goes into the larynx and the respiratory system, food and liquid are directed into the tube leading to the stomach, the esophagus. Because food or liquid in the bronchial tubes or lungs could cause a blockage or lead to an infection, the airway must be protected. The epiglottis is a leaf-like piece of cartilage extending upwards from the larynx. The epiglottis can close down over the larynx when someone is eating or drinking, preventing these substances from entering the airway. In laryngitis, the tissues below the level of the epiglottis are swollen and inflamed. This causes swelling around the area of the vocal cords, so that they cannot vibrate normally. A hoarse sound to the voice is very characteristic of laryngitis.

Laryngitis is a very common problem, and often occurs during the course of an upper respiratory tract infection (cold). Causes and symptoms Laryngitis is caused almost 100% of the time by a virus. The same viruses which cause the majority of simple upper respiratory infections (colds, etc.) are responsible for laryngitis. These include parainfluenzae virus, influenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus, rhinovirus, coronavirus, and echovirus. Extremely rarely, bacteria such as Group A streptococcus, M. catarrhalis, or that which causes tuberculosis may cause laryngitis. In people with faulty immune systems (particular due to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome, or AIDS ), infections with fungi may be responsible for laryngitis. Symptoms usually begin along with, or following, symptoms of a cold. A sore, scratchy throat, fever , runny nose, achiness, and fatigue may all occur. Difficulty swallowing sometimes occurs with streptococcal infections . The patient may cough and wheeze. Most characteristically, the patient's voice will sound strained, hoarse, and raspy.

In extremely rare cases, the swelling of the larynx may cause symptoms of airway obstruction. This is more common in infants, because the diameter of their airways is so small. In that case, the baby may have a greatly increased respiratory rate, and exhibit loud high-pitched sounds with breathing (called stridor ). Diagnosis Diagnosis is usually made by learning the history of a cold followed by hoarseness. The throat usually appears red and somewhat swollen. Listening to the chest and back with a stethoscope may reveal some harsh wheezing sounds with inspiration (breathing in). In long-standing (chronic laryngitis), tuberculosis may be suspected. Using a scope called a laryngoscope, examination of the airway will show redness, swelling, small bumps of tissue called nodules, and irritated pits in the tissue called ulcerations. Special skin testing (TB testing) will reveal that the individual has been exposed to the bacteria causing TB. Treatment Treatment of a simple, viral laryngitis simply addresses the symptoms. Gargling with warm salt water, pain relievers such as acetaminophen , the use of vaporizers to create moist air, and rest will help the illness resolve within a week.

In an infant who is clearly struggling for air, it may be necessary to put in an artificial airway for a short period of time. This is very rarely needed. An individual with tubercular laryngitis is treated with a combination of medications used to treat classic TB. In people with fungal laryngitis, a variety of antifungal medications are available. Alternative treatment Alternative treatments include aromatherapy inhalations made with benzoin, lavender, frankincense, thyme, and sandalwood. Decoctions (extracts made by boiling an herb in water) or infusions (extracts made by steeping an herb in boiling water) can be made with red sage (Salvia officinalis var. rubra) and yarrow (Achillea millefolium) or with licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra). These are used for gargling, and are said to reduce pain. Echinacea (Echinacea spp.) tincture taken in water every hour for 48 hours is recommended to boost the immune system.

Antiviral herbs, including usnea (Usnea spp.), lomatium (Lomatium dissectum), and ligusticum (Ligusticum porteri), may help hasten recovery from laryngitis. Homeopathic remedies are recommended based on the patient's symptoms. Some people may get relief from placing cold compresses on the throat. Prognosis Laryngitis. Symptoms and Treatment. What is laryngitis? | Patient Laryngitis is an inflammation of your voice box (larynx). It is usually due to an infection, most often a virus. You may become hoarse but symptoms usually go within a week or so. See a doctor if symptoms persist. What is laryngitis? The voice box (larynx) joins the back of the throat to the windpipe (trachea). The vocal cords are part of the larynx and are needed for speech. Laryngitis means inflammation of the larynx. It usually results in a hoarse or husky voice, or losing your voice for a short time. It is most often due to infection with a virus (viral laryngitis). Other causes are much less common.

What are the symptoms of viral laryngitis? You may feel sore over the front of your neck and become hoarse shortly afterwards. The voice sometimes goes and you may only be able to whisper. Some people are alarmed at this. However, it is only temporary whilst the vocal cords are inflamed during the infection. You may also have a mild high temperature (fever) and a cough. Sometimes laryngitis is part of a more widespread infection. For example, you may also have a sore throat (pharyngitis) , tonsillitis , a cold or a flu-like illness . In these situations, you may also have other symptoms such as a sore throat, headache, feeling tired, swollen neck glands , runny nose, pain on swallowing and general aches and pains. A typical viral laryngitis gets worse over 2-3 days. It then eases and goes, usually within a week. However, you may have a croaky voice for a week or so even after the other symptoms have gone. This is because the inflammation of the vocal cords may take a while to settle after the virus has gone. Breathing difficulty is an uncommon complication.

This may occur if there is a lot of inflammation and swelling in the voice box (larynx), which causes the windpipe (trachea) to narrow. This is rare in adults but sometimes happens in young children with smaller, narrower windpipes. See a doctor urgently if you have any difficulty in breathing with laryngitis. What is the treatment for viral laryngitis? Not treating is an option, as laryngitis usually gets better within a few days. Have plenty to drink, as it is tempting not to drink very much if it is painful to swallow. You may become mildly dry (dehydrated) if you don't drink much. Mild dehydration can make headaches and tiredness much worse. Also if your voice box (larynx) becomes dry, the inflammation gets worse. Chewing sugar-free gum can also help prevent your larynx becoming dry. Paracetamol or ibuprofen will help to ease pain, headache and high temperature (fever). To keep symptoms to a minimum it is best to take a dose at regular intervals, as recommended on the packet of medication, rather than now and then. Aspirin gargles will do little to ease soreness in the larynx.

This is because a gargle does not touch the larynx; it only touches the back of the throat. However, it may ease a sore throat if you have this together with laryngitis. (There is little research evidence to confirm that aspirin gargles are effective for sore throat. However, it is a popular treatment and may be worth a try.) If used, dissolve some soluble aspirin in water and gargle for 3-4 minutes. You can do this 3-4 times a day. Spit out the aspirin after gargling. (Note: you should not give aspirin to children aged under 16.) Other gargles, lozenges and sprays which you can buy may help to soothe a sore throat. However, again, they will do little to help with soreness in the larynx. They tend to be expensive, and may do little extra to ease symptoms than the above measures. Breathing in moisturised (humidified) air may help. The theory is that moisture in the airways may be soothing and may help to clear secretions. Humidifiers are available from most large pharmacies but can be expensive.

Alternatively, you can place boiling water in a large bowl, and then breathe in the steam. Pharmacies sell a variety of devices to do this in a more convenient way. The most simple is a steam cup, which is fitted with a lid and mask. You put the boiling water in a cup, put the lid on the top, and breathe through the mask. Always be careful not to burn yourself with the boiling water. Avoid things which irritate your larynx. This includes cigarette smoke, caffeine and alcohol. Read more blog posts What about using or resting my voice? If possible, rest your voice when you have laryngitis. If you overuse your voice when the vocal cords are inflamed, it may make the inflammation worse. It is unlikely to do any permanent damage, but it may take longer for your normal voice to return. Resting the voice means not shouting, singing or talking for long periods. Quiet conversation is usually fine. A sighing soft speech is best rather than whispering until the laryngitis has gone. This is because whispering makes your voice box (larynx) work harder than soft sighing speech. Once you can hum comfortably, you can probably start talking normally again.

If you are a performer such as a singer, it can be a difficult decision as to when to start singing again. Singing too early, when symptoms are easing, may prolong the hoarse voice longer than if you rest it fully until symptoms have completely gone. There is no easy answer as to the earliest it is safe to sing without doing any more harm. A professional singer may wish to consult a speech therapist if a crucial decision is to be made about an important singing engagement. If you are having chemotherapy . Other causes of laryngitis and hoarseness As well as being caused by a virus, laryngitis can be caused by other germs. These can be bacteria or fungi. Laryngitis may also be caused by a long period of screaming, yelling or singing very loudly. This causes your vocal cords to bang together which can make them inflamed. If laryngitis doesn't settle after three weeks, it is called chronic laryngitis. Causes for this include: Less common infections (for example thrush ). Overuse of your voice. This is particularly common in people who use their voice in their jobs - for example, teachers, professional singers, actors.

Certain blood pressure medicines such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and water tablets (diuretics ). If the hoarseness in your voice does not settle in three weeks, you should always see your doctor. You will be referred to a specialist who can look down past your throat with a special instrument. This is called laryngoscopy. This is so they can find the cause of the laryngitis. Once the cause has been found, treatment can be advised. For example, if laryngitis is due to voice overuse, you may be referred to a speech therapist for exercises for your voice box (larynx). Or if it is due to acid reflux, you may need treatment for that. Laryngoscopy also checks your hoarseness is not caused by anything more serious. Other less common causes for a hoarse voice are: Non-cancerous (benign) lumps or nodules on vocal cords. Tumours (cancer) on the vocal cords or nearby structures. Problems with the nerve going to the vocal cords. When should I see a doctor? See a doctor if any of the following develop: Symptoms that are severe or are different to those described above.

Difficulty breathing. If this is the case, contact a doctor or ambulance urgently. A high temperature which does not settle after two days. A hoarse voice (or change in your voice) which has not settled after three weeks. Swollen neck glands which do not go within 2-3 weeks after an infection. Swollen glands in the neck without symptoms of infection. A lump in your neck (other than swollen neck glands, which should go away within a week or two). Hoarseness or loss of your voice when you have had a recent operation to your neck. Further help & information Laryngitis Symptoms, Treatment, Causes - What is laryngitis? - MedicineNet Medical Author: Benjamin Wedro, MD, FACEP, FAAEM Benjamin Wedro, MD, FACEP, FAAEM Dr. Ben Wedro practices emergency medicine at Gundersen Clinic, a regional trauma center in La Crosse, Wisconsin. His background includes undergraduate and medical studies at the University of Alberta, a Family Practice internship at Queen's University in Kingston, Ontario and residency training in Emergency Medicine at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center.

Medical Editor: Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology. What is laryngitis? Quick GuideSore Throat or Strep Throat? How to Tell the Difference What is laryngitis? Laryngitis is inflammation of the vocal cords located in the larynx or voice box. The larynx is the voice box that allows us to speak, shout, whisper, and sing. The larynx consists of a cartilage skeleton that houses the vocal cords, which are covered by a mucus lining. Muscles inside the larynx adjust the position, shape, and tension of the vocal cords, allowing the voice to make different sounds like whispering, singing, and shouting.

Any change in the air flow (which is generated by the lungs exhaling air) across the vocal cords will affect the voice and the quality of the sound. The larynx is located at the junction of the mouth and trachea (where air enters the e lungs). There is a flap-like covering called the epiglottis , whose job it is to prevent food and saliva from entering the larynx during swallowing. Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box and vocal cords, causing a person to lose their voice and become hoarse. The quality of the voice becomes gravelly-sounding and sometimes too quiet or soft to hear. Because there is inflammation, throat pain is often an associated symptom. Picture of the larynx and trachea Patient Comments: Laryngitis - Causes - Viewers Share Their Medical Experiences - MedicineNet Main Article on Laryngitis Comment from: Ismail, 35-44 Male (Patient) Published: July 13 I worked earlier on board (ship) tankers as a mariner for about 8 years and now working in an office. I suspect the cause of my bad voice was as a result of cold .

But not quite sure since I am not a medical personnel. I have bad voice, and it was almost 2 years with the thought or belief that it would go. I treated it with salt water gargle and now taking much fluid (warm water) and it is about 3 days now. Was this comment helpful? Yes Comment from: txdave42, 35-44 Male (Patient) Published: November 30 I've had laryngitis for almost a month now. I have no improvement and hate talking because it is so tiring and my voice cracks. The ENT told me I have a thrush infection in the larynx and put me on clotrimazole . I'm really depressed over this because from what I've read online, it is very rare condition and not easy to get rid of. Was this comment helpful? Yes Comment from: voiceless, 19-24 Female (Patient) Published: November 23 My laryngitis started back in 2012, four days before a big presentation in my career. By then I could not predict what triggered it, as I am not much of a singer neither a smoker.

In 2013 Public health doctors misdiagnosed me with tonsils and all sorts. Only later they took me for a gastroscopy and discovered my hiatal hernia for which I was in hospital monthly to collect omeprazole (my nail growth was on an increase). They helped and so as I got better, I would stop the medication and reduce acidic food intake. Out of the blue, being voiceless would start (laryngitis). Was this comment helpful? Yes Comment from: Silverfox, 55-64 Female (Patient) Published: December 13 I was on the bus and a man coughed without covering his mouth. I just knew those germs were flying all over the place. That same day all of a sudden my throat starting hurting. I couldn't swallow without feeling pain . The second day I went to the doctor and was diagnose with laryngitis. I was prescribed azithromycin tablets & promethazine -DM syrup. I was informed not to talk for two days and not to drink anything cold, and that's what I am doing. So far my throat is feeling a lot better. I am not talking, I just text on the phone. Was this comment helpful?

Yes Comment from: Shukra , 65-74 Male (Patient) Published: October 31 I am working with primary school children for conservation of environment and sustainable waste management, near my house. While teaching the in-classroom and in-the-field practical work I have to use my voice maximum. May be due to overuse of my voice, now I am suffering from laryngitis. The doctor has advised me voice rest. Was this comment helpful? Yes Comment from: Dawn, 55-64 Female ( Caregiver ) Published: January 31 I am a childcare provider. A child that I watched for 2 hours gave another child croup . I ended up with laryngitis. Was this comment helpful? Yes 1 Laryngitis - Symptoms in Children Question: What were the symptoms associated with laryngitis in your baby or child? • Chronic Laryngitis: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis Read This Next Overview Laryngitis occurs when your larynx, or voice box, and vocal cords become swollen and irritated. This fairly common condition often causes hoarseness or loss of voice, which is generally temporary.

A range of issues can cause laryngitis, including: long-term smoking overusing your voice viral infections such as cold and flu viruses Your risk increases if you have allergies or pneumonia or if you regularly come into contact with irritating chemicals. Treatment usually involves adequate rest and hydration, but some cases may require medication. You may need surgery if you have a very serious case. Recovery usually depends on the cause and severity of your condition. Most cases are short-term and can be treated at home. Symptoms that last longer than 10 days may be a sign of a more serious medical condition. You should call your doctor if you have laryngitis symptoms for longer than 10 days. Difference Between Acute and Chronic Laryngitis Laryngitis may be acute or chronic. Chronic laryngitis can develop over long periods of time and last for weeks or months. Acute laryngitis usually comes on suddenly and clears up within a few days to a week. What Causes Chronic Laryngitis? A variety of factors can cause chronic laryngitis. Long-term cigarette smoking can irritate your vocal cords and cause your throat to swell.

Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) causes the contents of your stomach to move up into your esophagus. This can irritate your throat. Other conditions that may lead to chronic laryngitis include: bronchitis excessive exposure to toxic chemicals complications from the flu or a chronic cold Who Is at Risk for Chronic Laryngitis? People at risk for chronic laryngitis are tobacco smokers and people who are regularly exposed to irritating inhalants or toxic chemicals. You also have a greater risk if you have chronic upper respiratory infections, such as the common cold, or suffer from allergies. You can develop ulcers or growths on your vocal cords over time if you talk or sing excessively. Vocal cords lose their ability to vibrate as you age. This makes you more susceptible to chronic laryngitis. Recognizing the Symptoms of Laryngitis Common symptoms of chronic laryngitis include: hoarseness swelling of the glands in your neck, or lymph nodes difficulty swallowing Acute laryngitis will typically clear up within two weeks. Your doctor should evaluate symptoms that last longer than two weeks as soon as possible. How Is Chronic Laryngitis Diagnosed?

See your doctor if your throat has been hoarse for longer than 10 days. It’s important to take your child to their doctor if their symptoms last for a week. If your child is less than 3 months old and has trouble breathing or swallowing, go to a doctor right away. Call your child’s doctor if your child has vocal cord swelling accompanied by any of the following: a barking cough difficulty breathing difficulty swallowing These may be signs of croup, or swelling of the area around the vocal cords. This is common in infants and children. How Is Chronic Laryngitis Treated? Your doctor will examine your throat to determine the cause of the laryngitis. Treatment will be based on the cause of your condition. These symptoms can be caused by an infection in your respiratory tract. You may need to see an ear, nose, and throat specialist if you’re a smoker and you’ve had laryngitis symptoms for over a month. Rest People who speak or sing for a living will need to rest their voices until the inflammation subsides. You should limit how much you use your voice after you recover to prevent the condition from developing again.

Getting extra rest will help your body recover even if singing or speaking isn’t part of your profession. Hydration Your doctor may also recommend that you use a humidifier in your home to add moisture to your environment and help soothe your scratchy throat. Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Avoid caffeine and alcohol because these substances can increase inflammation. You can also keep your throat moist by sucking on lozenges. Be careful to avoid substances that will irritate your throat, such as cough drops that contain menthol. Medications Viruses cause the majority of cases of infectious laryngitis. Your doctor may prescribe antibiotics in the rare case that your condition is caused by a bacterial infection. Treatment for chronic laryngitis is aimed at the underlying cause and will vary. You doctor may prescribe decongestants, pain relievers, or steroid injections. Surgery Cases caused by vocal cord polyps and loose or paralyzed vocal cords are considered to be very serious. You doctor may recommend surgery if either of these have caused your chronic laryngitis. Vocal cord polyp removal is typically an outpatient procedure. You doctor may recommend collagen injections or surgery for loose or paralyzed vocal cords.

Preventing Chronic Laryngitis General healthy practices will help you to avoid chronic laryngitis. Washing your hands and avoiding contact with others who have the flu or cold will limit the risk of catching a virus. People who use their voices excessively for a living should take frequent breaks. Talk to your doctor about other ways you can reduce the possibility of inflammation. You should avoid working in locations that constantly expose you to harsh chemicals. People who smoke should quit immediately to lower their risk of inflammation. Hoarseness | American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Patient Health Information News media interested in covering the latest from AAO-HNS/F can find information on embargoes, Annual Meeting press registration and more below. Please direct any interview requests or policy questions to our media and public relations staff at newsroom@entnet.org . Abnormal changes in the voice are called hoarseness. When hoarse, the voice may sound breathy, raspy, strained, or show changes in volume or pitch (depending on how high or low the voice is). Voice changes are related to disorders in the sound-producing parts (vocal folds) of the voice box (larynx).

While breathing, the vocal folds remain apart. When speaking or singing, they come together and, as air leaves the lungs, they vibrate, producing sound. Swelling or lumps on the vocal folds hinder vibration, altering voice quality, volume, and pitch. What are the causes of hoarseness? Acute Laryngitis: The most common cause is acute laryngitisswelling of the vocal folds that occurs during a common cold, upper respiratory tract viral infection, or from voice strain. Serious injury to the vocal folds can result from strenuous voice use during an episode of acute laryngitis. Voice Misuse: Telephone use with the handset cradled to the shoulder Using inappropriate pitch (too high or too low) when speaking Not using amplification when public speaking Benign Vocal Cord Lesions: Prolonged hoarseness can occur when you use your voice too much, or too loudly for extended periods of time. These habits can lead to nodules, polyps, and cysts. Vocal nodules (singers nodes) are callus-like growths of the vocal folds.

Vocal fold polyps and cysts also occur in those who misuse their voice, but can also occur in those who do not. Vocal Hemorrhage: If you experience a sudden loss of voice following a yell or other strenuous vocal use, you may have developed a vocal fold hemorrhage. Vocal fold hemorrhage occurs when one of the blood vessels on the surface of the vocal folds ruptures and the soft tissues fill with blood. It is considered a vocal emergency and should be treated with absolute voice rest and examination by an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor). Gastroesophageal Reflux (GERD): A possible cause of hoarseness is gastro-esophageal reflux, when stomach acid comes up the swallowing tube (esophagus) and irritates the vocal folds. Other typical symptoms of GERD include heartburn and regurgitation. Usually, the voice is worse in the morning and improves during the day. These people may have a sensation of a lump or mucus in their throat and have an excessive desire to clear it.

Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPRD): If the reflux makes it all the way up through the upper sphincter and into the back of the throat, it is called LPRD rather than GERD. The structures in the throat (pharynx, larynx, and lungs) are much more sensitive to stomach acid and digestive enzymes, so smaller amounts of the reflux into this area can result in more damage. Many patients with LPRD do not have hearburn or other classic symptoms of GERD. Smoking: Smoking is another cause of hoarseness. Because smoking is the major cause of throat cancer, if smokers become hoarse, they should see an otolaryngologist. Neurological Diseases or Disorders: Hoarseness can also appear in those who have neurological diseases such as Parkinsons or a stroke, or may be a symptom of spasmodic dysphonia, a rare neurological disorder that usually affects only the voice, but sometimes affects breathing. A paralyzed vocal fold may be the cause of a weak, breathy voice. If the hoarseness persists for more than three months and other causes have been ruled out, a neurologist may be helpful for diagnosis.

Other Causes: These include allergies, thyroid problems, trauma to the voice box, and, occasionally, menstruation. Very serious conditions such as laryngeal cancer can also cause hoarseness, which is why it is important to have chronic hoarseness evaluated promptly by an otolaryngologist How is hoarseness treated? Hoarseness caused by a cold or flu may be evaluated by family physicians, pediatricians, and internists who have learned how to examine the larynx. Problems with the voice are often best managed by a team of professionals who know and understand how the voice functions. These professionals are otolaryngologists, speech/language pathologists, and teachers of singing, acting, and public speaking. Vocal nodules, polyps, and cysts are typically treated with a combination of microsurgery and voice therapy. How is hoarseness evaluated? Otolaryngologists will obtain a thorough history of a patients hoarseness and general health. They will then evaluate the voice and do a complete ear, nose, and throat exam. This includes examination of the vocal folds by laryngoscopy.

Laryngoscopy may be suggested by the otolaryngologist at any time during an evaluation for hoarseness, but if it persists beyond three weeks it should be evaluated and that evaluation should occur within a maximum of 3 months. The evaluation should be immediate if there is concern about a serious underlying cause is suspected. Doctors usually look at the vocal folds either with a mirror placed in the back of the throat, or with a very small, lighted flexible tube (fiberoptic scope) that is passed through the nose to view the vocal folds. Videotaping or stroboscopy (slow-motion assessment) may also help with the analysis. These procedures are well tolerated by most patients. In some cases, special tests designed to evaluate the voice may be recommended. These measure voice irregularities, how the voice sounds, airflow, and other characteristics that are helpful in diagnosing and guiding treatment. When should I see an otolaryngologist?

If hoarseness lasts longer than three weeks, especially if you smoke If you do not have a cold or flu If you are coughing up blood If you have difficulty swallowing If you feel a lump in the neck If you observe loss or severe changes in voice lasting longer than a few days If you experience pain when speaking or swallowing If difficulty breathing accompanies your voice change If your hoarseness interferes with your livelihood If you are a vocal performer and unable to perform How are vocal disorders treated? The treatment of hoarseness depends on the cause. Many common causes of hoarseness can be treated simply by resting the voice or modifying how it is used. An otolaryngologist may make some recommendations about voice use behavior, refer the patient to other voice team members, and in some instances recommend surgery if a lesion, such as a polyp, is identified. Not smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke is recommended to all patients. Drinking fluids and taking medications to thin out the mucus may help. How to prevent hoarseness Specialists in speech/language pathology (voice therapists) are trained to assist patients in behavior modification to help eliminate some voice disorders.

Patients who have developed bad habits, such as smoking or overusing their voice by yelling and screaming, benefit most from this conservative approach. The speech/language pathologist may teach patients to alter their methods of speech production to improve the sound of the voice and to resolve problems, such as vocal nodules. When a patients problem is specifically related to singing, a singing teacher may help to improve the patients singing techniques. Prevention tips: Avoid agents that dehydrate the body, such as alcohol and caffeine. Avoid secondhand smoke. Stay hydrateddrink plenty of water. Humidify your home.

Question: Which part of the body would be treated if the patient was suffering from laryngitis?
Answer: Throat