Laryngitis involves the inflammation of the larynx. In most circumstances, the condition eventually gets better without requiring treatment in about a week. The indications of laryngitis can start abruptly and typically become worse over a span of 2-3 days.
Common symptoms of laryngitis
- Difficulty speaking
- Hoarseness of voice
- Mild fever
- Sore throat
The speaking difficulty and hoarse voice typically worsen every day and can last for up to a week after the other symptoms subside. - Irritating cough
- Constant need to clear the throat
The speaking difficulty and hoarse voice typically worsen every day and can last for up to a week after the other symptoms subside. In some cases, the larynx can swell up and cause breathing difficulties. This is quite common in adults but can also occur in young children who have smaller, constricted windpipes.
Laryngitis is often linked to other conditions such as throat infection, common cold, flu or tonsillitis, thus other symptoms can also manifest such as headache, runny nose, swollen glands, feeling tired and achy as well as pain while swallowing.
When to consult a doctor
Since laryngitis often gets better quickly without requiring treatment, a doctor can be consulted if the symptoms are severe or they last longer than 2 weeks. It is also best to seek medical care if breathing difficulty is evident.
Why laryngitis develops
In most circumstances, laryngitis can be caused by either a viral infection such as flu or common cold or damage to the larynx such as straining the voice. In such cases, most of the symptoms typically pass within a week which is called acute laryngitis.
It is important to note that laryngitis can also have other causes such as alcohol misuse, smoking or an allergic reaction in which the symptoms lasts longer. This is called as chronic laryngitis.
Treatment
Majority of cases typically get better without requiring treatment within a week. The best way to allow the vocal cords to heal is to avoid smoky environments, rest the voice as much as possible and drink plenty of fluids.
In some cases, it might be possible to deal with the underlying cause of laryngitis. If the symptoms are triggered by an allergic reaction, the individual should avoid the substance he/she is allergic to or use medications to control the bodily response upon exposure to the substance.
Prevention
Since laryngitis is often due to a common viral infection such as flu or common cold, it is not always possible to prevent it. Nevertheless, there are measures that can help minimize the risk for acquiring the condition:
- Get the yearly flu vaccine (if recommended by the doctor)
- Observe good personal hygiene such as washing hands before and after eating as well as after using the toilet
- Avoid close contact with individuals who have respiratory infections such as flu or common cold
- Limit the consumption of alcoholic beverages
- Avoid being exposed to irritants such as dust or smoke especially if the individual has cold or other respiratory tract infections
- Avoid smoking
- Avoid clearing the throat regularly since this can irritate the larynx
- Elevate the head using pillows or cushions while sleeping to protect the larynx from acid reflux during sleeping.
- Avoid shouting or singing out loudly for extended periods. It is vital for those who utilize their voice excessively on a regular basis to undergo proper training to avoid damage to the larynx.