How To Treat Laryngitis

Laryngitis, in its acute form, is a widespread condition in which the larynx, or voice box, becomes swollen and inflamed due to overuse, irritation, or viral, bacterial, or fungal infection. The most commonly seen causes of acute laryngitis are the various potential infections or trauma to the vocal cords due to excessive use. The most common symptoms of acute laryngitis include hoarseness, a dry or sore throat, congestion, swollen lymph nodes, an increase in saliva production, shortness of breath, muscle pain, mild fever, speech difficulty, and a persistent cough. Commonly, laryngitis may be related to another illness or an underlying condition such as tonsillitis, croup, epiglottitis, laryngeal cancer, and in very rare cases, diphtheria.

If laryngitis is persistent or becomes chronic (lasting two weeks or more), it may cause serious health issues such as polyps or nodules. The more serious symptoms of chronic laryngitis include the inability to drink liquids, coughing up blood, a high fever accompanied by a sore throat, weight loss, swollen neck, sore throat, and loss of voice. If any symptoms last for more than two weeks, it is essential to seek medical attention right away.

Antibiotics

Over the years there have been a few studies and trials regarding the treatment of laryngitis using antibiotics. Considering most cases of laryngitis are caused by either a viral infection or a trauma to the larynx due to overusing one's voice, it is apparent this course of action would have no real positive effect.

They have been found to be somewhat effective in the treatment of acute laryngitis due to a bacterial infection such as group A streptococcus, pneumococcus, or Haemophilus influenzae. If a bacterial infection is the cause of the inflammation, a doctor may recommend oral or intravenous antibiotics. Amoxicillin is the first choice for most patients. In the case of a penicillin allergy, there are alternatives such as sulfamethoxazole or trimethoprim.

Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a group of steroid hormones produced naturally in the adrenal gland and also made synthetically to aid in the relief of swelling, redness, and allergic reactions in the body. Doctors will most often recommend this type of medication to expedite the healing process and get you back on your feet faster. Although this may seem like a quick fix, there are things to consider before choosing this route.

Your doctor will ask about any medications you are currently taking that may counteract with corticosteroids, They will also warn you about the possibility of compromising your immune system and the likelihood of increased glucose levels. Other side effects include headaches, hypertension, swelling of the legs, bruising more easily, facial swelling, and in the long term, cataracts and diabetes.

Lots Of Fluids

Drinking lots of clear fluids, such as water, broth, and green tea, is always a good idea when you are sick, as they keep you hydrated. Making sure you keep your fluid intake up will also help to flush out mucus and loosen phlegm. There are lots of warm fluids such as hot teas, soups, and broths that will soothe your sore throat and accelerate recovery. Avoid caffeine and alcohol as are dehydrating and can prolong healing. Do not drink soda, as it may cause issues with acid reflux that can cause or worsen laryngitis.

Rest Your Voice

The limited use of your vocal cords will give them time to rest and recover. It is imperative to rest your voice by talking as little as possible. Don't yell or sing while you are recovering from laryngitis. Even whispering, which causes the vocal cords to be tightly stretched, should be avoided, as it actually puts additional strain on the vocal cords. Smokers should avoid smoking and stay away from second-hand smoke as well since smoke will only further irritate your condition, as will any inhaled fumes or irritants.

Humidifier

Using a cool or warm mist humidifier while recovering from laryngitis will help to keep the air around you moist so your vocal cords can heal faster. Dry air can cause many adverse effects such as irritated sinuses, sore throat, and other respiratory ailments that can cause or hinder recovery from laryngitis. It's important to maintain a comfortable level of moisture in the air to keep your throat from drying out, which will lengthen healing time. It is recommended to keep a humidifier running at all times but most importantly at night time while you sleep, which is when your body does most of its healing.