🗣️ Laryngitis – Overview
Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx (voice box), which often affects the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness, voice loss, sore throat, and cough. It can be acute or chronic, depending on the duration and underlying cause.
🧬 Causes
🔹 Acute Laryngitis (most common; lasts <3 weeks):
- Viral infections (e.g., cold, flu)
- Bacterial infections (less common)
- Voice overuse or strain (e.g., yelling, singing)
- Allergies or irritants (smoke, pollutants)
🔹 Chronic Laryngitis (lasts >3 weeks):
- Smoking
- Chronic acid reflux (LPR – laryngopharyngeal reflux)
- Excessive alcohol use
- Exposure to irritants (e.g., chemical fumes)
- Chronic sinusitis or postnasal drip
- Recurrent infections
- Vocal abuse
🩺 Symptoms
- Hoarseness or weak voice
- Voice loss
- Dry or sore throat
- Tickling sensation or dry cough
- Pain when speaking or swallowing
- Feeling of a lump in the throat
🔍 Diagnosis
- Clinical evaluation (history & physical exam)
- Laryngoscopy: Direct visualization of the vocal cords using a scope
- Voice assessment (if chronic or recurrent)
- Imaging or biopsy (if a tumor or structural lesion is suspected)
💊 Treatment
🩹 For Acute Laryngitis:
- Voice rest
- Hydration
- Steam inhalation
- Avoid whispering (can strain voice more than speaking)
- Treat underlying cause (e.g., viral illness, allergy)
Antibiotics are rarely needed (only for confirmed bacterial infections)
🛡️ For Chronic Laryngitis:
- Avoid irritants (smoking, alcohol, pollutants)
- Manage reflux (GERD/LPR): diet changes, PPIs or H2 blockers
- Voice therapy (with a speech-language pathologist)
- Treat chronic sinusitis or allergies