Laryngitis - Definition, Causes, Symptoms and Treatment

Laryngitis Definition

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) generally associated with hoarseness or loss of voice. Laryngitis may be caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Reflux laryngitis is associated with chronic hoarseness and symptoms of esophageal irritation such as heartburn.

Acute laryngitis may occur as an isolated infection or as part of a generalized bacterial or viral upper respiratory tract infection. Repeated attacks of acute laryngitis cause inflammatory changes associated with chronic laryngitis.

Laryngitis Causes

In the vast majority of cases, laryngitis is caused by a virus. The virus is often the same one that causes a common cold or influenza. In very rare cases, the disease is caused by a bacterium, such as the one that also causes tuberculosis. In people with weakened immune systems, such as those with AIDS, laryngitis can be caused by a fungus. The same viruses which cause the majority of simple upper respiratory infections (colds, etc.) are responsible for laryngitis.

Laryngitis often occurs with an upper respiratory infection and will go away by itself. Common laryngitis is not normally associated with any breathing difficulty. In very rare cases, swelling of the larynx can cause constriction (shrinking or blockage) of the airways. This problem is usually serious only in young children, whose airways are small.

Laryngitis Symptoms

The symptoms of laryngitis are similar to those of the common cold. In extremely rare cases, the swelling of the larynx may cause symptoms of airway obstruction. This is more common in infants.

The other symptoms of the laryngitis may be included:

• Fever
• Runny nose
• Achiness
• Tiredness
• Hoarseness
• Raspy voice
• Scratchy throat
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Glands in the neck
• Recent upper respiratory infection

Laryngitis Treatments

Avoid alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and tobacco.

Avoid spicy or fried foods, peppermint, citrus, tomatoes, onions, and chocolate, especially if these foods increase symptoms.

Treatment is aimed at relieving its symptoms. Gargling with warm salt water, taking pain relievers, using a moist air vaporizer, and getting plenty of rest are usually the best practices to follow.

Antacids neutralize stomach acid and give immediate relief. Popular choices include sodium bicarbonate, calcium carbonate, and aluminum and magnesium antacids, all best used 30-60 minutes after each meal and at bedtime.