Laryngitis Tips

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Laryngitis Tips

Laryngitis is an infection or irritation of the voice box (larynx). The most common cause is a viral infection.

It causes hoarse voice or the complete loss of the voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal cords).

Last Updated - 5th July 2006

Types

It is categorized as acute if it lasts less than a few days. Otherwise it is categorized as chronic which should take 1 1/2 week.

Causes

Viral infections such as a cold

Allergies

Excessive talking

Excessive singing

Excessive yelling

Cigarette smoke

Backflow (reflux) of stomach acid into the throat

Heavy drinking or smoking can lead to chronic laryngitis

Laryngitis is often caused by a virus or by bacteria.

Symptoms

Hoarseness

Loss of voice

Urge to constantly clear your throat

Fever

Tiredness

Throat pain

Cough

Prevention and Home Treatment

Rest your voice. Talk as little as possible.

Stop shouting.

Do not whisper as whispering is harder on your vocal chords than talking.

Avoid clearing your throat.

If hoarseness is caused by a cold, treat the cold.

Stop smoking.

Avoid others who are smoking.

Humidify your bedrooms or whole house, if possible.

Stay hydrated, drink plenty of liquids; water, orange juice, etc. Drink 8 to 12 glasses of water per day.

To soothe your throat, gargle with warm salt water ( 1 teaspoon of salt in 8 ounces of water), or drink weak team or hot water with honey.

Ibuprofen and aspirin may help alleviate fever and some of the discomfort associated with laryngitis.

Avoid speaking when possible. Speak softly, but do not whisper.

Drink warm liquids such as tea or a honey-lemon drink.

Take cough drops/throat lozenges. If unavailable, suck on hard candy.

Humidifiers and warm showers can also help alleviate some symptoms.

Avoid airborne irritants such as smoke and allergens.

Gargle with a salt water rinse; avoid mouth rinses containing alcohol which can dry the throat (however, these can be helpful when the cause of the infection is bacterial).

A tea of gingerroot can help reduce swelling of the vocal chords and relieve symptoms.

When To Call A Physician

If hoarseness persists for more than 3 to 4 weeks.

Fever.

If you suspect that the problem may be stomach acid reflux.

Disclaimer: The Laryngitis T ips / Information presented and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views of Tips And Treats . com and/or its partners.

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