Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx, often caused by infection, allergies, or other medical conditions. Viral cases are treated with rest and fluids, while bacterial cases require antibiotics and isolation to prevent spread.
Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, part of the throat, characterized by loss of voice and irritation of the vocal cords. This condition has many causes, including smoking, screaming, severe gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), and various allergies. The most common cause, however, is an infection, which could be viral or bacterial. Inflammation can also be caused by some serious medical conditions such as tonsillitis, bronchitis or even pneumonia. If caused by an infection, the disease that causes laryngitis can be contagious.
An upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or the flu, can often cause laryngitis. A viral case cannot be treated with antibiotics, which means a doctor will prescribe rest, steam inhalations, and plenty of fluids. This condition is usually not contagious and often goes away in a couple of days. Using a cool mist humidifier in the bedroom and avoiding smoking can also help. Since there aren’t many medications available to treat this inflammation, the best course of action is to treat the symptoms while waiting for the problem to go away on its own.
The presence of fever usually indicates that the inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection. Bacterial laryngitis is contagious and is usually acquired from someone else who is already ill. It can be spread up to a day or two after the last symptom has disappeared, and if the infection is severe, it may take several weeks. Aside from a high fever, other symptoms that indicate bacterial laryngitis are severe pain rather than just a sore throat, difficulty swallowing, colored nasal discharge, and pain that extends to the ears. This condition is particularly serious in a child, as it can mask a serious condition called epiglottitis, in which the airways almost completely close.
People who think they have a bacterial throat infection should stay home and away from other people. In most cases, a doctor will prescribe a course of antibiotics and recommend treating symptoms at home with voice rest and warm drinks. Until the infection is gone, it’s best to minimize contact with others, as the infection can be spread without direct contact, through coughing. Most cases clear up in less than a week, after which it’s safe to return to your normal routine.
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