Laryngitis is the inflammation of the vocal cords located in the larynx (voice box) region. This condition can lead to various voice problems such as voice distortion, hoarseness, and sometimes complete loss of voice. Laryngitis can be acute (sudden onset, short-term) or chronic (long-lasting). Acute laryngitis is usually related to infections, while chronic laryngitis mostly develops due to incorrect or intensive voice use, environmental factors, or reflux.
Causes of Laryngitis
Viral or bacterial infections, reflux, allergies, smoking and environmental factors, excessive and incorrect voice use can be counted among the common causes of laryngitis. Viral or bacterial colds, flu, or upper respiratory tract infections may be accompanied by laryngitis. Reflux, which is the reaching of stomach acid to the throat, is also an important condition that can irritate the vocal cords and cause laryngitis. Allergens such as pollen, dust, and chemical vapors can cause irritation in the larynx, and this situation can result in voice problems and laryngitis. Cigarette smoke, air pollution, and dry environments dry out the vocal cords and make them prone to inflammation. Speaking loudly, shouting, or singing for extended periods can cause edema and inflammation in the vocal cords. Teachers, lawyers, call center employees, and professional voice artists who use their voice intensively are at risk for laryngitis.
Symptoms of Laryngitis
The most distinctive symptom of laryngitis is voice hoarseness. Besides this, voice cracking, thickening or thinning of the voice, burning sensation in the throat, tickling or dryness, frequent need to clear the throat, dry cough, voice fatigue or loss during long conversations, and rarely discomfort or sore throat during swallowing may also occur.
How is Laryngitis Diagnosed?
Laryngitis is usually diagnosed through ENT examination and endoscopic vocal cord evaluation. During examination with flexible or rigid endoscopy, edema, redness, or nodule-like structures on the vocal cords can be observed. Additionally, the patient’s voice use, reflux history, and allergic condition are also evaluated.
Treatment of Laryngitis
Laryngitis treatment is planned according to the underlying cause.
1-Acute Laryngitis
- Usually related to viral infections and improves within a few days.
- Voice rest, plenty of fluid intake, providing a humid environment are recommended.
- When necessary, steam inhalation and anti-inflammatory medications with doctor’s recommendation can be used.
- If a bacterial cause is detected, antibiotic treatment may be required.
2-Chronic Laryngitis
- Smoking should be quit, and if there is reflux, it should be treated.
- Voice therapy is very effective in correcting incorrect voice use habits.
- Precautions should be taken against allergies or occupational factors.
- For laryngitis that does not resolve for a long time, endoscopic examination and stroboscopy if necessary are performed for masses or nodules on the vocal cords.
Recommendations for Voice Hygiene
To prevent laryngitis and maintain voice health, the following recommendations should be observed:
- Drink plenty of water, keep your vocal cords moist.
- Don’t smoke, stay away from smoky environments.
- Don’t speak loudly or shout for extended periods.
- Avoid acidic, fatty, and spicy foods, don’t interrupt your reflux treatment.
- When your voice becomes hoarse, stay silent instead of “whispering”; whispering strains the vocal cords more.
- Keep the ambient air humid.
- If your voice complaints last longer than 2 weeks, definitely consult an ENT specialist.
Although laryngitis is usually a simple vocal cord inflammation, prolonged voice hoarseness can also be the first sign of serious diseases. In case of voice hoarseness lasting longer than two weeks, definitely have a vocal cord examination. Correct and timely diagnosis is the key to correct and effective treatment.
Prof. Dr. Elif Ayanoğlu Aksoy
Ear Nose Throat Diseases Specialist
Voice and Swallowing Disorders
