LARYNGITIS

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General Illness Information

Common Name:

Laryngitis

Medical Term:

None Specified

Description:

An inflammation of the larynx (voice box) and surrounding tissues, causing temporary hoarseness.

Causes:

Inflammation of the vocal cords and surrounding area caused by:

Viruses (common), bacteria, allergies. Electrolyte-balance disturbances, especially low potassium, that cause muscle weakness (Uncommon). Tumors (rare) or polyps. Excessive use of the voice.

Prevention:

Avoid raising, or straining your voice. Treat all respiratory infections appropriately.

Signs & Symptoms

	Hoarseness or loss of voice.
	Sore throat; tickling in the back of throat.
	Sensation of a lump in throat.
	Slight fever (sometimes).
	Swallowing difficulty (rare).
	Tiredness.
	Usually associated with symptoms of common cold and cough.

Risk Factors

	Recent respiratory illness.
	Smoking.
	Exposure to irritants.
	Fatigue, stress.

Diagnosis & Treatment

This is a self-limiting illness and extensive tests are not usually necessary. Occasionally laryngoscopy is required to visualize the larynx in order to make a diagnosis, and if a nodule is found, biopsy may be necessary.
General Measures:
	For most cases, resting the voice for a few days is all that is needed.
	Use a cool-mist humidifier to increase air moisture and ease the constricted feeling in the throat. Clean humidifier daily.
	Hot, steamy showers also help.
	Avoid smoking and avoid second-hand cigarette smoke.

Medications:
	For minor discomfort, you may use non-prescription drugs, such as acetaminophen, or non-prescription cough syrup.
	No antibiotic treatment is required for viral laryngitis.
	If a bacterial cause is suspected, or if there is associated bacterial bronchitis, broad spectrum antibiotics are indicated.

Activity:
No restriction.

Diet:
	No special diet required. Increase fluid intake.

Possible Complications :
	Chronic hoarseness.

Prognosis

Spontaneous recovery from viral laryngitis in 7 to 14 days. Bacterial infections are usually curable in 7 to 10 days with antibiotic treatment.

Other

'Nothing Specified'.