Laryngitis

Laryngitis is swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the voice box (larynx) that is usually associated with hoarseness or loss of voice.

Causes

The voice box (larynx) is located at the top of the airway to the lungs (trachea). The larynx contains the vocal cords. When the vocal cords become inflamed or infected, they swell. This can cause hoarseness, and may sometimes block the airway.

The most common form of laryngitis is an infection caused by a virus. It may also be caused by:

Allergies
Bacterial infection
Bronchitis
Common cold
Flu
Injury
Irritants and chemicals
Pneumonia

Laryngitis often occurs with an upper respiratory infection.

Several forms of laryngitis occur in children that can lead to dangerous or fatal respiratory blockage. These forms include:

Croup
Epiglottitis

Symptoms

Fever
Hoarseness
Swollen lymph nodes or glands in the neck

Exams and Tests

A physical examination can determine whether hoarseness is caused by a respiratory tract infection.

Patients with lasting hoarseness (especially smokers) will need to see an ear, nose, and throat doctor (otolaryngologist) for tests of the throat and upper airway.

Treatment

Because most common laryngitis is caused by a virus, antibiotics may not help. Your health care provider will make this decision.

Resting your voice helps by reducing inflammation of the vocal cords. A humidifier may soothe the scratchy feeling that comes with laryngitis. Decongestants and painkillers may relieve the symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, if you have one.

Prevention

Try to avoid people who have upper respiratory infections during cold and flu season.
Wash your hands regularly.
Avoid crowded places.

Stopping smoking may help prevent tumors of the head and neck or lungs, which may lead to hoarseness.

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