Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx) caused by overuse, irritation, or infection. The larynx contains vocal cords, which are responsible for producing sounds through their movement and vibration. In laryngitis, the vocal cords become swollen, leading to distortion of sound and hoarseness. In some cases, the voice may become almost undetectable. Laryngitis can be acute (short-lived) or chronic (lasting longer than three weeks). Most cases of laryngitis are triggered by viral infections or vocal strain and are not serious. However, persistent hoarseness may indicate an underlying medical condition.
Symptoms of laryngitis typically last for a couple of weeks and are often caused by minor factors, such as a viral infection. Common signs and symptoms include hoarseness, weak voice or voice loss, tickling sensation, rawness of the throat, sore throat, and dry cough. In certain cases, immediate medical attention is necessary, especially if a child experiences stridor (noisy, high-pitched breathing sounds when inhaling), excessive drooling, swallowing difficulties, breathing problems, or a fever higher than 103°F (39.4°C). These symptoms may indicate croup or epiglottitis, which require medical intervention.
Acute laryngitis is usually temporary and improves as the underlying cause resolves. It can be caused by viral infections similar to the common cold, vocal strain from yelling or overuse of the voice, or rare bacterial infections like diphtheria. Chronic laryngitis, lasting longer than three weeks, is often a result of prolonged exposure to irritants. It can lead to vocal cord strain, injuries, or the development of growths on the vocal cords (polyps or nodules). Causes of chronic laryngitis include inhaled irritants like chemical fumes, allergens, or smoke, acid reflux (GERD), chronic sinusitis, excessive alcohol use, habitual voice overuse (common among singers or cheerleaders), smoking, and less commonly, bacterial or fungal infections or infections with certain parasites. Other causes of chronic hoarseness include cancer, vocal cord paralysis, vocal cord bowing in old age, or other health conditions.
Risk factors for laryngitis include respiratory infections, exposure to irritating substances such as cigarette smoke, excessive alcohol consumption, stomach acid, or workplace chemicals, and overusing the voice through excessive speaking, loud speaking, shouting, or singing.
Complications of laryngitis can occur when the infection spreads to other parts of the respiratory tract.
To prevent dryness or irritation of the vocal cords, it is recommended to avoid smoking and secondhand smoke, limit alcohol and caffeine intake, drink plenty of water to keep the throat moist, avoid spicy foods that can trigger acid reflux, consume a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, refrain from excessive throat clearing, and take measures to avoid upper respiratory infections.
Diagnosis of laryngitis is typically based on the presence of hoarseness. Medical professionals may use techniques such as laryngoscopy, which involves visually examining the vocal cords using a mirror or a flexible tube with a camera (endoscope) inserted through the nose or mouth. If suspicious areas are detected, a biopsy may be performed to examine tissue samples under a microscope.
Treatment for acute laryngitis usually involves self-care measures, as the condition tends to resolve within a week or so. Chronic laryngitis requires treatment of underlying causes, such as managing heartburn, quitting smoking, or reducing alcohol consumption. Antibiotics are not typically prescribed unless a bacterial infection is present. Corticosteroids may be used in urgent cases where vocal cord inflammation needs to be reduced, such as before a performance or speech. In certain cases of laryngitis associated with croup in toddlers, corticosteroids may also be used