Laryngitis is inflammation of the voice box caused by viral or bacterial infections, vocal strain, or environmental irritants. Treatment depends on the root cause and includes rest, pain relievers, antibiotics, and avoiding irritants. Chronic laryngitis may be a symptom of more serious conditions.
Laryngitis is inflammation of the part of the throat called the voice box or larynx. The larynx sits just above the windpipe, where the lungs and throat meet. On either side of the larynx are two folds of skin called the vocal folds, which tighten or loosen to form recognizable words and sounds. If you’ve ever craned the neck of a balloon to make high-pitched squeaks, you can understand how these vocal cords work to create human speech.
Normally, the vocal cords are covered in a thin, smooth layer of mucus to keep them lubricated. However, when the larynx becomes inflamed due to a virus or bacterial infection, the cords swell and the mucus can thin or dry out. The result is a hoarse or raspy voice, often accompanied by a fever and cough. Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections, but some are caused by strep-like bacteria.
The standard treatment for this condition depends on the root cause. If laryngitis is viral in nature, doctors usually suggest complete vocal rest and pain relievers for associated fever symptoms. For the less common bacteria-based ailment, a course of antibiotics may also be prescribed. Short-term (acute) laryngitis is usually no cause for alarm: Your vocal cords should return to normal within a few weeks at most. Long-term (chronic) laryngitis, however, can be a symptom of much more serious conditions such as throat cancer or vocal cord nodules.
Many people develop the condition due to vocal strain. Those who routinely use their voice as part of their occupations should use amplification equipment or receive voice training. Cheerleaders, coaches, singers, and others whose livelihoods depend on their voices should be especially aware of throat strains. Professional singers often receive training on how to protect themselves from stress-induced laryngitis.
Other factors that can lead to laryngitis include first and secondhand cigarette smoke, environmental irritants, and excessive caffeine consumption. These substances tend to dry out the essential mucus lining on the vocal cords, leaving them vulnerable to inflammation. Sucking on a medicated lozenge or gargling salt water may relieve some of the pain, but alcohol-based mouthwashes may cause more dryness. Your best bet is to avoid these irritants as much as possible to prevent a regular recurrence.
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