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.