Laryngitis

What is Laryngitis

Laryngitis is irritation and swelling (inflammation) of your vocal cords. This condition causes symptoms such as:

  • A change in your voice. It may sound low and hoarse.
  • Loss of voice.
  • Coughing.
  • Sore throat.
  • Dry throat.
  • Stuffy nose.

Depending on the cause, this condition may go away after a short time or may last for more than 3 weeks. Treatment often involves resting your voice and using medicines to soothe your throat.

Follow these instructions at home:

Medicines

  • Take over-the-counter and prescription medicines only as told by your doctor.
  • If you were prescribed an antibiotic medicine, take it as told by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you start to feel better.

General instructions

  • Talk as little as possible. Also avoid whispering.
  • Write instead of talking. Do this until your voice is back to normal.
  • Drink enough fluid to keep your pee (urine) pale yellow.
  • Breathe in moist air. Use a humidifier if you live in a dry climate.
  • Do not use any products that have nicotine or tobacco in them, such as cigarettes and e-cigarettes. If you need help quitting, ask your doctor.

Contact a doctor if:

  • You have a fever.
  • Your pain is worse.
  • Your symptoms do not get better in 2 weeks.

Get help right away if:

  • You cough up blood.
  • You have trouble swallowing.
  • You have trouble breathing.

Summary

  • Laryngitis is inflammation of your vocal cords.
  • This condition causes your voice to sound low and hoarse.
  • Rest your voice by talking as little as possible. Also avoid whispering.
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