Laryngitis: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of laryngitis?

Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box) due to irritation, infection, or overuse. The primary symptom of laryngitis is hoarseness or loss of voice, but there can be other accompanying symptoms, depending on the underlying cause and severity. Common symptoms of laryngitis include:

1. Hoarseness or Changes in Voice: The most typical symptom is a raspy or strained voice. In some cases, complete loss of voice (aphonia) may occur.
2. Sore Throat: The throat may feel scratchy, dry, or irritated, leading to discomfort or pain, especially when swallowing.
3. Dry Cough: A persistent, dry cough may develop due to irritation of the throat and airways.
4. Throat Clearing: Frequent throat clearing or a sensation of needing to clear the throat can be present.
5. Tickling Sensation: Some individuals may feel a tickling or raw sensation in the throat.
6. Mild Fever: In cases of viral laryngitis, a low-grade fever may accompany other symptoms.
7. Swollen Lymph Nodes: The lymph nodes in the neck may become swollen and tender to the touch.
8. Fatigue: Generalized tiredness or fatigue may occur, especially if the laryngitis is associated with an infection.

It’s important to note that symptoms can vary depending on whether laryngitis is acute (short-term) or chronic (lasting more than three weeks). Acute laryngitis is often caused by viral infections (such as the common cold or flu) or vocal strain, while chronic laryngitis may be due to ongoing irritation, reflux, smoking, or other underlying health conditions.

Most cases of acute laryngitis resolve on their own with rest and voice hygiene measures (such as avoiding shouting or whispering). Chronic laryngitis may require treatment of the underlying cause, such as medication for reflux, voice therapy, or, in rare cases, surgical intervention. If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and management.

What are the causes of laryngitis?

Laryngitis can be caused by various factors that lead to inflammation of the larynx (voice box). The primary causes of laryngitis include:

1. Viral Infections: The most common cause of acute laryngitis is viral infections, such as those responsible for the common cold or flu (influenza). These viruses can irritate the lining of the larynx, causing inflammation and swelling.
2. Bacterial Infections: Although less common than viral causes, bacterial infections can also lead to laryngitis. Examples include infections caused by Streptococcus bacteria.
3. Voice Overuse or Strain: Excessive use of the voice, shouting, singing loudly, or speaking in a strained manner can cause irritation and inflammation of the vocal cords and larynx. This is often referred to as “vocal abuse.”
4. Environmental Irritants: Exposure to irritants such as smoke, chemical fumes, allergens, or pollutants can irritate the throat and contribute to laryngitis.
5. Reflux of Stomach Acids: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause stomach acids to back up into the throat (acid reflux), irritating the larynx and leading to laryngitis. This is known as reflux laryngitis.
6. Allergies: Allergic reactions to pollen, dust, mold, or pet dander can cause inflammation in the respiratory tract, including the larynx, leading to allergic laryngitis.
7. Smoking: Tobacco smoke is a significant irritant that can cause chronic inflammation of the larynx and vocal cords, leading to chronic laryngitis.
8. Dry Air: Breathing dry air, particularly in heated or air-conditioned environments, can dry out the throat and irritate the larynx, contributing to laryngitis.
9. Inhaled Irritants: Inhaling chemicals or irritants in the workplace or home environment can irritate the throat and cause laryngitis.
10. Systemic Conditions: Certain systemic conditions, such as autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus) or neurological disorders, may rarely cause inflammation of the larynx.

The treatment and management of laryngitis depend on identifying and addressing the underlying cause. Most cases of acute viral laryngitis resolve on their own with rest, hydration, and voice rest. Chronic laryngitis may require addressing underlying conditions, voice therapy, or other interventions to alleviate symptoms and promote healing of the larynx.

How is laryngitis diagnosed?

Laryngitis is typically diagnosed through a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Here are the steps involved in diagnosing laryngitis:

1. Physical examination: A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination to check for signs of laryngitis, such as:
   • Hoarseness or a hoarse voice
   • Redness and swelling of the vocal cords
   • Swelling or redness of the tonsils
   • Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
2. Medical history: The healthcare provider will ask questions about the patient’s symptoms, medical history, and any recent illnesses or exposures to irritants.
3. Laryngeal exam: A laryngeal exam is performed using a mirror or a flexible scope to examine the vocal cords and surrounding tissues.
4. Laryngoscopy: A laryngoscopy is a procedure where a scope is inserted through the nose or mouth to visualize the vocal cords and surrounding tissues.
5. Imaging studies: Imaging studies such as X-rays, computed tomography (CT) scans, or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans may be ordered to rule out other conditions that may be causing similar symptoms.
6. Laboratory tests: Laboratory tests such as complete blood counts (CBCs) and blood chemistry tests may be ordered to rule out other underlying conditions.

The diagnosis of laryngitis is often made based on the patient’s symptoms, physical examination, and diagnostic tests. The healthcare provider may also use various classification systems to categorize the severity of laryngitis, such as:

• Mild: Hoarseness only
• Moderate: Hoarseness with inflammation and swelling of the vocal cords
• Severe: Hoarseness with significant inflammation and swelling of the vocal cords

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for a proper evaluation and diagnosis of laryngitis.

What is the treatment for laryngitis?

The treatment for laryngitis typically focuses on relieving symptoms, reducing inflammation, and promoting healing. Here are some common treatments for laryngitis:

Conservative management:

1. Rest: Avoid screaming, shouting, or talking loudly to rest the vocal cords.
2. Warm liquids: Drink warm liquids such as tea, soup, or broth to soothe the throat.
3. Honey: Apply a thin layer of honey to the throat to reduce inflammation and soothe the pain.
4. Gargling: Gargle with warm salt water several times a day to reduce swelling and kill bacteria.
5. Pain relief medications: Over-the-counter pain relief medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help relieve pain and reduce fever.

Therapeutic interventions:

1. Speech therapy: Speech therapy can help improve vocal cord function and reduce symptoms.
2. Vocal cord exercises: Vocal cord exercises can help strengthen the vocal cords and improve their function.
3. Laryngeal massage: Laryngeal massage can help reduce tension in the vocal cords and surrounding tissues.
4. Steam inhalation: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or a steam humidifier can help loosen mucus and reduce inflammation.

Medical treatment:

1. Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed if bacterial infection is suspected or confirmed.
2. Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling in the vocal cords.
3. Cough suppressants: Cough suppressants may be prescribed to relieve coughing.

Surgical treatment:

1. Laryngoscopy: A laryngoscopy may be performed to remove any excess mucus or debris from the vocal cords.
2. Laser surgery: Laser surgery may be performed to remove polyps or nodules from the vocal cords.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment of laryngitis.