Information From Your Health Care Provider

LARYNGITIS

Basic information

description

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and surrounding tissues. Inflammation causes swelling and pain and is a reaction to injury, infection, or irritation. The disorder is common, affects all ages, and occurs more often in late fall, winter, and early spring. With acute laryngitis, the symptoms usually come on quickly and it heals on its own. With chronic laryngitis, the symptoms develop more slowly and may come and go over a long period of time.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Hoarseness, weak voice, or loss of voice.
Sore throat; tickling in the back of the throat.
Feeling like you have a lump in your throat.
Slight fever (sometimes).
Swallowing difficulty (rare).

causes

There are many factors that can lead to the inflammation of the larynx. The most common is a viral infection.

risk increases with

Viral infection from a recent cold or flu-like illness.
Excessive use of the voice (such as singers, politicians, cheerleaders, or young children who cry or yell strenuously).
Exposure to irritants such as mold, pollen and pollutants, or irritating chemicals.
Allergies.
Smoking or being around second-hand smoke.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Rarely, it may be a bacterial infection, or be caused by disorders such as tuberculosis, syphilis, fungal infection, or tumor.
Use of orally inhaled drugs (e.g., for asthma).

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Most cases are caused by a virus. Taking steps to prevent viral infections such as hand washing may help.
Take care to not overuse the voice.

expected outcomes

Acute laryngitis usually clears up on its own in 10 to 14 days. With chronic laryngitis, the outcome depends on the underlying condition.

possible complications

Complications are rare.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Most people will self-treat this disorder. If symptoms persist, are severe, or cause concern, see your health care provider. An exam of the throat, ears, and nose can usually confirm the diagnosis. Medical tests are normally not needed.
Home care is the main form of treatment.
Avoid using your voice as much as possible. Don't whisper (it can irritate the throat). Write notes to communicate. For most cases, resting the voice for a few days is all that is needed.
Suck on throat lozenges, cough drops, or hard candy.
To help relieve minor pain, gargle often with double-strength tea or warm salt water (one-half teaspoon of salt to 8 oz. of water).
Hot, steamy showers will help.
Avoid smoking and second-hand cigarette smoke.

medications

If an underlying disorder is diagnosed, drugs may be prescribed for treatment.

activity

Usually no limits.

diet

No special diet. Drink plenty of fluids.

notify our office if

You or a family member has hoarseness or other symptoms of laryngitis that last longer than 2 weeks.
You feel very ill, are vomiting, have a high fever, or difficulty breathing. If these symptoms develop in a child, call immediately.