Laryngitis

Laryngitis is an irritation or swelling of the vocal cords in the larynx, often caused by viral infections, overuse of the voice, or irritants. It leads to hoarseness, sore throat, and difficulty speaking.

What is laryngitis?

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box, which is also known as the larynx. It often makes your voice sound hoarse or may cause you to lose your voice altogether.

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What are the symptoms of laryngitis?

Common symptoms of laryngitis include:

  • A hoarse or weak voice
  • The need to clear your throat often
  • Discomfort or a dry feeling in your throat
  • A cough
  • Sore throat
  • In some cases, fever

What causes laryngitis?

Laryngitis usually happens due to:

  • A viral infection, like the common cold
  • Excessive use of your voice, like shouting or singing a lot
  • Allergies or irritants such as smoke

How common is laryngitis?

Laryngitis is quite common and can affect anyone at any age. It often occurs during cold and flu season.

Who is more likely to get laryngitis?

People who are more likely to get laryngitis include:

  • Teachers or people who frequently use their voice
  • Smokers or those exposed to second-hand smoke
  • People with allergies or frequent respiratory infections

How can I treat laryngitis?

Most cases of laryngitis improve on their own, but you can help by:

  • Resting your voice as much as possible
  • Drinking plenty of fluids, especially warm drinks
  • Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air
  • Avoiding irritants like smoke and strong fumes

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How to live with laryngitis?

If you have laryngitis, taking care of your voice is important. Try to avoid loud talking or shouting, and stay hydrated. Most people recover within a week.

Final thoughts

Laryngitis is usually a temporary condition that affects your voice. If you’re worried about your symptoms, it’s a good idea to speak to your GP or healthcare provider.

Always consult a medical professional
This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting, stopping or changing any medication. If you have concerns about your medication or experience side effects, speak to your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

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