Article: Laryngitis

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx. It causes hoarse voice or the complete loss of the voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal cords).

Types

It is categorized as acute if it lasts less than a few days. [1] Otherwise it is categorized as chronic which could last over 3 weeks.

Causes

Laryngitis is often caused by a virus or by bacteria.

Other causes include smoking, various allergies, reflux and straining the voice through singing or shouting.

Home treatments

• Ibuprofen and aspirin may help alleviate fever and some of the discomfort associated with laryngitis.
• Avoid speaking when possible. Speak softly, but do not whisper.
• Drink warm liquids such as tea or a honey-lemon drink.
• Take cough drops/throat lozenges. If unavailable, suck on hard candy.
• Stay hydrated, drink plenty of liquids; water, orange juice, etc.
• Humidifiers and warm showers can also help alleviate some symptoms.
• Avoid airborne irritants such as smoke and allergens.
• Gargle with a salt water rinse; avoid mouth rinses containing alcohol which can dry the throat (however, these can be helpful when the cause of the infection is bacterial).
• A tea of gingerroot can help reduce swelling of the vocal chords and relieve symptoms.