Laryngitis
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| ICD-10 | J04.0, J37.0 |
|---|---|
| ICD-9 | 464.0-464.4, 476.0-476.1 |
| DiseasesDB | 29347 |
| MedlinePlus | 001385 |
| eMedicine | ent/353 ent/354 |
| MeSH | D007827 |
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).
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[edit] 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.
[edit] Causes
- viral infection
- bacterial or fungal infection
- inflammation due to overuse of the vocal cords
- excessive coughing
[edit] Treatments
Correct treatment depends on a correct diagnosis of the underlying cause of laryngitis. The most prevalent cause of a missed diagnosis of laryngeal cancer is a belief that persistent hoarseness is due to laryngitis. Should hoarseness last for more than 3 weeks, one should consult an otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, & Throat physician or ENT) for an examination including direct visualization of the vocal cords. This examination may also detect the presence of vocal cord nodules, a structural change resulting in persistent hoarseness or loss of voice.
If laryngitis is due to a viral cause:
- 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 (but not hot) 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, 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 may help reduce swelling of the vocal cords and relieve symptoms.
- Your physician may prescribe a steroid medication to help accelerate the healing of the inflammation present.---
If laryngitis is due to gastroesophageal reflux:
- Your physician may instruct you to take a nonprescription medication such as Zantac or Prilosec for a period of 4-6 weeks.
If laryngitis is due to a bacterial or fungal infection:
- Your physician may prescribe a course of antibiotics or anti-fungal medication.
If persistent hoarsness or loss of voice (sometimes called "laryngitis") is a result of vocal cord nodules:
- Your physician may recommend a course of treatment that may include a surgical procedure and/or speech therapy.
- Reduce high-impact stress to the vocal cords caused by loud, frequent, and rapid speech.
[edit] External links
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