How can I determine the underlying causes of laryngitis and find the best treatment for it?

Doctor's Answers 1

Laryngitis is the medical term for inflammation of the larynx (voice box). Common symptoms include:

  • Sore throat
  • Hoarse voice
  • Feeling of something stuck in the throat
  • Cough

Laryngitis can be acute (temporary and resolves within 1-2 weeks) or chronic (if it last for several weeks to months). Common causes of laryngitis include:

Acute

  • Viral cold/flu
  • Voice abuse
  • Acute sinusitis

Chronic

  • Chronic sinusitis
  • Acid reflux from the stomach to the voicebox region
  • Voice abuse (e.g. in teachers, singers etc)
  • Smoking and alcohol abuse
  • Cancer of the voice box

The treatment of laryngitis depends on the underlying cause. If your laryngitis is persistent after your cold/flu resolves or is chronic, you should consult an ENT Specialist for an assessment.

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