Laryngitis

Diagnosis

The most common sign of laryngitis is hoarseness. Voice changes can range from mild hoarseness to almost complete loss of voice. For chronic hoarseness, a doctor may:

• Review your medical history and symptoms.

• Listen to your voice and examine your vocal cords.

• Refer you to an ENT specialist if needed.

Techniques used to diagnose laryngitis include:

Laryngoscopy

• Visual examination of the vocal cords using a light and tiny mirror.

• Fiber-optic laryngoscopy may be used, which involves inserting a thin tube with a camera through the nose or mouth to see vocal cord movement.

Biopsy

• A tissue sample may be taken if a suspicious area is seen.

• The sample is examined under a microscope to rule out serious conditions.

Treatment

Acute laryngitis usually improves on its own within a week. Self-care measures can help relieve symptoms, such as:

• Voice rest

• Drinking plenty of fluids

• Humidifying the air

Chronic laryngitis treatment focuses on managing underlying causes, including:

• Heartburn

• Smoking

• Excessive alcohol use

Medications that may be used include:

Antibiotics

• Usually not helpful, as most cases are viral.

• Prescribed only if a bacterial infection is confirmed.

Corticosteroids

• Reduce vocal cord inflammation in urgent cases.

• Used selectively, such as for young children with croup-related laryngitis.

Additional therapies may include:

• Voice therapy to reduce harmful voice habits.

In some cases:

• Surgery may be required.