Laryngitis: causes, symptoms, and treatment

Laryngitis is a medical condition characterized by inflammation of the larynx, which is commonly referred to as the voice box. The larynx houses the vocal cords, which play a crucial role in producing sound and enabling speech. When the larynx becomes inflamed, it can lead to changes in the voice, such as hoarseness or temporary loss of voice.

Is laryngitis contagious?

Laryngitis is not contagious. It's usually caused by factors like infections, overuse, or irritants, and isn't directly spread from person to person. However, if the underlying cause is a viral or bacterial infection, that infection might be contagious.

What are the symptoms of laryngitis?

• Hoarseness

• Weak or lost voice

• Throat discomfort

• Dry cough

• Throat pain

• Tickling sensation

• Difficulty swallowing

• Lump in throat

• Fatigue

• Fever

What are the causes of laryngitis?

• Viral infections: Common cold, flu, and other viral infections can lead to inflammation of the vocal cords.

• Bacterial infections: Bacterial infections, although less common, can also contribute to laryngitis.

• Voice strain: Overuse or strain on the vocal cords from excessive talking, shouting, or singing.

• Irritants: Exposure to irritants like smoke, pollutants, and chemicals can lead to inflammation.

• Acid reflux: Stomach acid flowing back into the throat can irritate and inflame the vocal cords.

• Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, pet dander, etc., can cause throat irritation.

• Dry air: Breathing dry air, especially in arid environments, can lead to vocal cord dryness and irritation.

• Excessive coughing: Frequent or forceful coughing can strain the vocal cords.

• Postnasal drip: Mucus dripping from the back of the nose can irritate the throat.

• Lifestyle factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and dehydration can contribute to laryngitis.

• Medical conditions: Certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism and respiratory illnesses may play a role.

• Inhaling respiratory irritants: Inhaling chemicals or substances that irritate the respiratory tract.

How do you treat laryngitis?

Treating laryngitis involves a combination of self-care measures and, in some cases, medical intervention. Here are some steps you can take to treat laryngitis:

• Rest your voice: Give your vocal cords a break by minimizing speaking and avoiding shouting or whispering. Communicate using soft speech or gestures if necessary.

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water to keep your throat moist and prevent further irritation. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, as they can contribute to dehydration.

• Humidify the air: Use a humidifier in your living space to add moisture to the air. This can help soothe your irritated throat.

• Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water can help moisturize and soothe your vocal cords. Be cautious to avoid burns.

• Throat lozenges or sprays: Over-the-counter throat lozenges or sprays containing soothing ingredients like honey or menthol can provide temporary relief.

• Warm salt water gargle: Gargling with warm salt water can help reduce inflammation and ease discomfort.

• Avoid irritants: Stay away from smoke, pollutants, and other irritants that can worsen your symptoms.

• Elevate your head: Prop up your head with pillows while sleeping to reduce throat irritation.

• Voice therapy: If laryngitis is due to voice strain or misuse, a speech therapist can provide exercises to improve vocal technique.

• Medications: In cases of severe discomfort, a doctor might recommend pain relievers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen.

• Treat underlying causes: If laryngitis is a symptom of an underlying condition like acid reflux, treating that condition can help alleviate symptoms.

• Medical evaluation: If symptoms persist for more than two weeks, or if you experience severe pain or difficulty breathing, consult a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.

What are home remedies for laryngitis?

• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids, especially warm water and herbal teas, to keep your throat moist and hydrated.

• Steam inhalation: Inhale steam from a bowl of hot water, covering your head with a towel, to moisturize and soothe your irritated throat.

• Honey and lemon: Mix a teaspoon of honey and a few drops of lemon juice in warm water. Sip this mixture to help soothe your throat.

• Herbal teas: Chamomile, ginger, licorice root, and slippery elm teas can provide relief from laryngitis symptoms.

• Turmeric milk: Warm milk with a pinch of turmeric can have anti-inflammatory properties and help soothe the throat.

• Apple cider vinegar: Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with warm water and honey. Gargle with this mixture to ease throat irritation.

• Throat lozenges: Choose lozenges containing natural ingredients like honey or menthol to temporarily relieve discomfort.

• Avoid irritants: Stay away from smoke, alcohol, caffeine, and other irritants that can worsen your symptoms.

• Voice rest: Minimize speaking, especially in noisy environments, to allow your vocal cords to heal.