Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, otherwise known as the voice box. It can cause pain and hoarseness and, in some cases, a complete loss of voice. Let’s take a closer look at the condition, as well as ways to manage your symptoms at home or through medical help.
Why Does Laryngitis Happen?
Laryngitis can be caused by a variety of different things. It’s most often due to an acute viral infection. However, other causes can include:
- Poor vocal hygiene (like shouting or dehydration)
- Smoking or vaping
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Certain inhaled medications
- A sore or dry throat
- Bacterial or fungal infections
Acute laryngitis often lasts between a period of three to seven days. Symptoms lasting over three weeks are considered chronic laryngitis.
Managing Acute Laryngitis at Home
Most cases of acute laryngitis will clear up on their own and don’t require additional medical attention. However, there are steps you can take to ease your discomfort as you heal.
- Throat lozenges. Sucking on throat lozenges can add moisture to your throat and reduce pain. Some are medicated and have additional numbing or germ-killing properties.
- Rest your voice. Avoid talking unless you have to, and never sing, shout or whisper. Though you might think it’s best to whisper, doing so can actually put additional strain on the larynx.
- Drink tea with honey. A cup of your favorite brew from The Spice & Tea Exchange of Charleston with some honey can help soothe your throat and help reduce inflammation. Honey can also help reduce any coughing that you might have as well, which can prevent further irritation.
- Drinking plenty of fluids. In addition to tea, water, clear broth and juice can all help to keep you hydrated, flush out mucus and break up phlegm. Just try to avoid beverages with caffeine or alcohol, as both can be dehydrating.
- Gargle warm salt water. Mixing salt with warm water and then gargling it around the back of your throat can temporarily soothe a sore throat. You can repeat as often as necessary to minimize discomfort.
- Use a humidifier. A humidifier can moisten the air around you, which can be helpful since dry air can irritate and inflame your throat. Humidifiers can be especially effective in the winter months when air is drier.
When to See a Doctor
If your hoarseness or other symptoms last more than a few weeks, it’s important to see a medical professional to determine the underlying cause. Your doctor can perform an evaluation and run necessary tests to come up with a treatment plan that may include:
- Antibiotics
- Medications to reduce stomach acid.
- Oral steroids
- Voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist
To learn more or to schedule an appointment, call Charleston ENT & Allergy today.