What Causes Laryngitis?

HealthPrep Staff

Inhaling Irritants

Photo Credit: Dreamstime

Cigarette smoke is not the only irritating substance that can cause the vocal chords to become inflamed. The larynx can also be affected by chemical fumes or allergens individuals inhale, as well as heavy alcohol use or even stomach acid as a result of acid reflux. If individuals must work in an environment where there are irritating substances in the air, using proper breathing protection is essential to avoid inhaling irritants. As with smoke, the only real cure for this form of laryngitis is avoiding exposure to the irritant in the first place.

Get more details on what can cause laryngitis now.

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

Photo Credit: MSN

Gastroesophageal reflux disease is a disorder of the digestive system where the lower esophageal sphincter does not function properly. The lower esophageal sphincter is a muscular ring that keeps the stomach contents from backing up into the esophagus. A gastroesophageal reflux disease patient will experience the influx of acid and stomach contents into their esophagus because the lower esophageal sphincter does not stay closed. Individuals affected by gastroesophageal reflux disease may develop inflammation in their vocal folds if the stomach contents or acids make their way to the throat level. The tissues that make up the vocal cords are not made to have repeated exposure to digestive acids and enzymes over a long period. Individuals who have laryngitis due to gastroesophageal reflux disease tend to present with symptoms such as hoarseness, feeling of a lump in the throat, coughing, and burning in the throat.

Learn more about the causes of laryngitis now.

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Inhaling Irritants

Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease

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