What is laryngitis?
Inflammation of the larynx ("laryngitis") is characterized by the fact that both the vocal cords and the larynx mucous membranes are inflamed. It usually develops from previous respiratory infections, such as a cold. Primarily, acute laryngitis causes hoarseness, But it can also lead to a complete loss of voice. If the symptoms persist for weeks, chronic laryngitis has developed. Depending on the pathogen, laryngitis may be contagious.
Why is it so difficult for me to speak with laryngitis?
The larynx is connected to both the vocal cords and the vocal folds and is so involved that we can make any sounds at all. With laryngitis, the larynx can no longer fully perform its task which is why we either get hoarse or lose our voice completely.
Symptoms of laryngitis
In addition to hoarseness The following symptoms can occur with laryngitis:
- Cough: barking and rough, often as a dry cough
- Sore throat
- difficulties swallowing
- Language problems
- Heavy throat clearing
- Feeling of lump in the throat
- Possibly fever
- Shortness of breath (in rare cases with severe swelling of the mucous membrane)
- Pain behind the breastbone (in these cases the trachea is also inflamed)
As a rule, laryngitis heals without consequences within days if the patient spares his voice. If hoarseness, sore throat and the like do not go away even after two weeks, the ENT specialist should be consulted. The larynx could become chronic – or the symptoms may not come from laryngitis, but from a so-called larynx carcinoma, a malignant tumor.
Children with laryngitis: croup cough
A croup cough often occurs in children due to a viral larynx. This usually results in sudden cramping, dry coughing fits at night, wheezing when breathing and, at worst, shortness of breath when the child panics. It is important to remain calm and also to calm the child down. In most cases, the complaints stop as soon as the offspring get fresh air and the room air is also humidified. If breathlessness sets in, the emergency doctor should be called immediately.
What causes laryngitis?
In most cases, laryngitis can be attributed to a virus infection, but sometimes bacteria are the trigger. People who have to use their voice heavily are particularly at risk – Singer or teacher, for example. There are also risk factors that increase the likelihood of illness. These include:
- Cigarette smoke
- Dry air
- dust
- Chemical vapors
- Other diseases, e.g. B. a nasal congestion, a sinus infection or reflux, in which gastric juice flows into the esophagus
Treatment of laryngitis
Most patients with laryngitis due to general cold symptoms go to the doctor, so that laryngitis is often more of a coincidence. The cause of the disease can only be treated if bacteria are the cause – In this case, the doctor can prescribe antibiotics. Decongestant preparations can also be used. Otherwise, it only helps to protect the throat and voice, so that the mucous membranes can swell in peace. The following tips will help to speed up the healing of the inflammation:
- Drink a lot – at least two, better three liters. Especially water and warm herbal tea.
- Pay attention to a humid indoor climate – and avoid dry heating air. This helps z. B. a room humidifier.
- Protect your voice – speak as little as possible, preferably not at all.
- Smoking should be avoided.
- Spicy foods and alcohol should also be avoided.
Reading tip: You can find home remedies for laryngitis here.
Do you want to talk to others about health issues? Then take a look at our BRIGITTE community!