What Is Laryngitis?

Laryngitis is the inflammation of the voice box, or larynx, often causing a hoarse or weak voice. It can result from infections, voice strain, or other conditions. Most cases are short-term, but if symptoms persist, you might be dealing with chronic laryngitis. ¹

Laryngitis Symptoms

1. Hoarse or Weak Voice

When you have laryngitis, your voice undergoes changes. You might sound raspy, or your voice may even disappear entirely. This is due to the swelling of the vocal cords, preventing them from vibrating properly. ²

2. Throat Discomfort

Apart from the voice alterations, you might feel:

Soreness: A general discomfort or raw feeling in your throat.
Tenderness: Your throat may be sensitive to touch or when swallowing.

3. Dry or Scratchy Throat

You could feel a dryness or scratchiness, making you want to clear your throat more often.

4. Dry Cough

One common symptom accompanying laryngitis is a dry, non-productive cough. This kind of cough doesn’t bring up mucus.

5. Difficulty Swallowing

For some, swallowing becomes an uncomfortable task. It might feel like there’s a lump in the throat or cause pain.

6. Swollen Glands

In some instances, especially if laryngitis is due to an infection, the lymph nodes in the neck may swell. This could be accompanied by a warm feeling or tenderness in the neck area.

7. Fever

A low-grade fever is possible, especially if an infection is the culprit behind the laryngitis.

8. Breathing Difficulties

In rare cases, and more commonly in children, the swelling of the voice box might cause difficulty in breathing. This is a more serious symptom and requires immediate medical attention.

Tips for Monitoring Symptoms

When you notice these symptoms, here are some steps you can take:

Document: Jot down when the symptoms started and any potential triggers you might think of. For example, did you attend a loud event or get exposed to a lot of smoke?
Voice Rest: Giving your voice a break can help in the healing process. Avoid speaking loudly or whispering, as both can strain your vocal cords.
Seek Medical Attention: If the symptoms persist beyond two weeks or if you suspect an underlying condition, it’s important to see a doctor. Additionally, if breathing becomes difficult, seek medical help immediately.

What Causes Laryngitis?

1. Viral Infections

Most of the time, laryngitis is a result of a viral infection. The same viruses that bring on colds and the flu can also inflame the larynx. This inflammation can interfere with the normal function of your vocal cords.

2. Voice Strain

Pushing your voice beyond its limits can strain the vocal cords. For instance:

Yelling or shouting: Especially during events like concerts or sports games.
Speaking for prolonged periods: Such as during lectures or presentations.

3. Bacterial Infections

While less frequent than viral causes, some bacteria can lead to laryngitis. In these cases, antibiotics might be required.

4. Irritants and Allergens

Exposure to certain environmental factors can irritate the larynx:

Smoke: Both firsthand and secondhand.
Polluted air: Industrial pollutants or dense urban environments can be culprits.
Allergens: Pollen, mold, or other allergens can trigger laryngitis in some individuals.

5. Acid Reflux

In people with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), stomach acid can flow back into the throat, causing irritation of the larynx. Over time, this can result in laryngitis.

6. Chronic Sinusitis

Ongoing sinus issues, where there’s frequent postnasal drip, can irritate the throat and lead to laryngitis.

7. Excessive Alcohol or Tobacco Use

Both alcohol and tobacco can dry and irritate the throat. Regular overconsumption can be a factor in developing laryngitis.

8. Injury to the Voice Box

Physical trauma, like a blow to the throat or even intubation (where a tube is inserted into the trachea during medical procedures), can cause laryngitis.

9. Fungal Infections

In some areas, fungal infections of the larynx are becoming more common, especially in those who use inhalers for asthma.

10. Other Causes

Certain diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis, can affect the larynx and bring about laryngitis.

Treatments for Laryngitis

1. Voice Rest

One of the simplest yet most effective treatments:

Avoid talking: This gives your vocal cords a chance to heal.
Limit whispering: Contrary to what you might think, whispering can strain the vocal cords just as much as regular talking.

2. Stay Hydrated

Drink water: Keeping the throat moist can help alleviate symptoms and speed up recovery.
Avoid caffeine and alcohol: These can dehydrate you, so it’s best to limit or avoid them.

3. Humidify Your Environment

Dry air can worsen symptoms, so consider:

Using a humidifier: This adds moisture to the air in your living space.
Taking steamy showers: The steam can help soothe and moisten your throat.

4. Avoid Irritants

Stay away from smoke: Both first and secondhand smoke can further irritate your throat.
Limit exposure to allergens: Things like pollen or pet dander can exacerbate symptoms for some people.

5. Over-the-counter Pain Relievers

Non-prescription medications, such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen, can help reduce pain and inflammation. However, always ensure you follow the recommended dosage and consult with a pharmacist or doctor if you’re unsure.

6. Lozenges and Gargles

Throat lozenges: Some find relief from sucking on lozenges.
Saltwater gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can soothe a sore or scratchy throat.

7. Avoid Straining Your Voice

Speak at a normal volume: Refrain from shouting or raising your voice.
Limit throat clearing: Constantly clearing your throat can add more strain.

8. Medical Interventions

If you suspect bacterial laryngitis or if your laryngitis persists, you might need medical treatment:

Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.
Antifungal medications: For laryngitis caused by fungal infections, especially in those who use asthma inhalers.
Acid blockers: If acid reflux is the cause, medications to reduce stomach acid can be beneficial.

9. Limit Alcohol and Tobacco

Since both can irritate the throat, consider reducing or eliminating your consumption.

10. Consultation

If symptoms persist beyond two weeks, it’s vital to see a doctor. They can provide specific treatments or rule out more serious conditions. ³

Prevention of Laryngitis

1. Voice Care

Avoid straining your voice: Whether it’s shouting at an event or giving long presentations, be cautious not to overuse or strain your vocal cords.
Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water ensures your vocal cords remain lubricated, reducing the risk of irritation.

2. Limit Exposure to Irritants

Avoid smoke: Both firsthand and secondhand smoke can irritate the throat. If you smoke, consider quitting.
Use a mask: In polluted environments or when using strong chemicals, wearing a mask can prevent irritants from affecting your throat.

3. Maintain Good Hygiene

Wash your hands regularly: This can reduce the risk of catching viral infections that could lead to laryngitis.
Avoid close contact with sick individuals: Especially those with respiratory infections.

4. Manage Reflux

If you suffer from acid reflux:

Elevate the head while sleeping: This prevents stomach acid from flowing back into the throat.
Avoid spicy and acidic foods: Especially before bedtime.
Stay upright after eating: Give your food time to settle and reduce the chances of acid making its way to your throat.

5. Humidify Your Space

Use a humidifier: Especially in dry environments or during winter months, adding moisture to the air can prevent throat dryness and irritation.
Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your throat moist from the inside.

6. Limit Alcohol and Caffeine Intake

Both can dehydrate and irritate the throat, so moderation is key.

7. Vaccinate

Get vaccinated for flu: The flu is a common cause of laryngitis, so annual vaccinations can help you avoid it.

8. Warm-Up Your Voice

If you’re a singer or use your voice professionally:

Do vocal exercises: This prepares your vocal cords for extensive use.
Avoid singing or speaking outside your natural vocal range: This reduces the strain on your voice.

9. Stay Away from Allergens

If you’re allergic:

Limit outdoor time during high pollen seasons.
Keep windows closed and use air purifiers to minimize allergens indoors.

10. Eat a Balanced Diet

A diet rich in vitamins and minerals can boost your immune system, helping you fend off infections that might lead to laryngitis.

Further Reading: Pharyngitis: The Signs, Symptoms, and Treatments

Article Sources

MedlinePlus. Laryngitis. ↩︎
Merck Manual: Professional Version. Laryngitis. ↩︎
National Library of Medicine. Acute Laryngitis ↩︎