Laryngitis is an infection of the larynx caused by a virus or excessive use. As a result, the voice changes dramatically, with decreased loudness and hoarseness. Clinical findings are used to make a diagnosis. If your symptoms last more than three weeks, you’ll need a laryngoscopy. Laryngitis caused by a virus is self-limiting. Other contagious or unpleasant conditions may necessitate specialized care.
Acute laryngitis is most commonly caused by
Upper respiratory infection caused by a virus
Bronchitis, pneumonia, influenza, pertussis, measles, and diphtheria can all cause cough-induced laryngitis. Acute or chronic laryngitis can be caused by overuse of the voice (particularly while speaking or singing loudly), allergic reactions, gastric reflux, bulimia, or inhalation of irritating chemicals (e.g., cigarette smoke or some aerosolized medications). Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) drugs, for example, can cause potentially fatal laryngeal edema as a side effect. Bacterial laryngitis is a very unusual condition. Reinke edema, a fluid swelling of both vocal cords, can be caused by smoking.
Laryngitis Symptoms and Signs
The most common symptom of laryngitis is a sore throat.
A vocal change that isn’t natural.
The volume of the patient’s voice is usually significantly reduced, and some people suffer from aphonia. Hoarseness, a tickling feeling, rawness, and a continual desire to clear the throat are all possible symptoms. The degree of inflammation affects the symptoms.
More severe infections might cause fever, lethargy, dysphagia, and throat pain. Although uncommon, laryngeal edema can induce stridor and dyspnea.
Diagnosis of Laryngitis
- Clinical assessment
- Laryngoscopy, either indirect or direct, is sometimes used.
- The symptoms of laryngitis are used to get a diagnosis.
For symptoms that last longer than three weeks, an indirect or direct flexible laryngoscopy is recommended; laryngitis symptoms include mild to severe redness of the mucosal membrane, which may also be edematous. Swelling of the laryngeal inner lining and redness of the arytenoids are symptoms of reflux. Diphtheria is suspected if a pseudomembrane is present.
Treatment of Laryngitis
Cough suppressants, voice rest, and steam inhalations are examples of symptomatic treatment.
There is no specific treatment for viral laryngitis.
Cough suppressants, voice rest, and steam inhalation all help to reduce the symptoms of acute laryngitis and speed up the healing process. Laryngitis can be relieved by quitting smoking and treating acute or chronic bronchitis.
Specific treatments for gastric reflux, bulimia, or drug-induced laryngitis may be effective depending on the suspected cause.
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