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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.