The larynx is a continuation of the pharynx and is located in the anterior part of the neck. The vocal cords are located in this instrument, as a result of which it plays a dominant role in the production of the voice. It also helps to facilitate breathing and protect the lungs from aspiration. If, however, due to certain factors such as excessive or inappropriate use of the voice, any irritation or infection, inflammation of the larynx may develop. This inflammation is called laryngitis and needs immediate treatment in order to prevent further problems.
What is laryngitis?
Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx and is the most common of the diseases that affect this structure. The condition is divided into acute and chronic. Acute laryngitis occurs suddenly and lasts only a few days, and often resolves spontaneously. Chronic laryngeal inflammation, on the other hand, causes symptoms that last longer than three or four weeks and may be a sign of injury to the vocal cords. Chronic laryngitis may indicate a more serious medical condition that needs a more thorough evaluation.
Causes of laryngitis
Laryngitis can arise from a multitude of causes, depending on its type (acute or chronic). The majority of cases of acute laryngitis are due to viral infections, similar to those that cause the common cold and flu. In rare cases inflammation of the larynx may occur due to a bacterial infection. Stress on the vocal cords due to overuse of the voice may also contribute to acute laryngeal inflammation.
On the other hand, chronic laryngeal inflammation usually results from long-term exposure to one or more aggravating factors, leading to deterioration of the vocal cords or the appearance of various formations in them, such as polyps or granulomas. These factors include prolonged vocal strain, exposure to cigarette smoke, environmental pollutants or chemicals, gastroesophageal reflux disease, chronic sinusitis, and allergies. In some cases, underlying conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or sarcoidosis may contribute to the development of chronic laryngitis. Finally, the rare causes of chronic laryngeal inflammation include bacterial, fungal or parasitic infections.
Symptoms caused by laryngeal inflammation
Symptoms of laryngeal inflammation can vary depending on the type of laryngitis, but generally include:
- Hoarseness, weakening or loss of voice, resulting from swelling and irritation of the vocal cords.
- Pain and discomfort in the throat.
- Dry cough, which may become persistent.
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Feeling of dryness and irritation in the throat area.
- Fever and malaise, especially if the laryngitis has been caused by an infectious cause.
In chronic cases, symptoms such as persistent hoarseness, sore throat and cough may occur for prolonged periods, often exceeding two weeks.
Diagnosis of laryngeal inflammation
The diagnosis of the condition is made by laryngoscopy. Laryngoscopy is an endoscopic technique that contributes to the thorough control of the area of the larynx and vocal cords, facilitating the immediate and detailed visualization of any pathology. The procedure is easily tolerated by the patient and no preparation is required.
Treatment options for laryngitis
For acute viral laryngeal inflammation, treatment mainly involves silence or reduced use of the voice for 1 week to reduce pressure on the vocal cords and taking over-the-counter pain relievers to relieve pain and fever. Symptoms of acute laryngitis usually resolve within 1 week. In cases where a bacterial infection is suspected, antibiotics may be prescribed.
The treatment of chronic laryngitis requires a multifaceted approach adapted to the respective causative factor. For laryngitis attributable to GERD, management of GERD with appropriate therapy is recommended. In cases of laryngitis caused by exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke, alcohol or any chemicals, avoiding exposure to them is vital. Finally, speech therapy may be beneficial for people with laryngitis caused by vocal strain.
Whether it is acute or chronic laryngitis, there are certain measures that can be taken to relieve symptoms. These initially include hydrating the throat by drinking plenty of fluids, chewing a lozenge or gum and gargling with salt water. Inhalations with water vapor, resting the vocal cords through silence and avoiding even whispering also work beneficially. Finally, decongestant nasal sprays are best avoided if laryngitis is suspected, as they cause dryness in the throat and worsen the problem. The ENT surgeon in Athens, Dr. Olga Papadopoulou recommends the appropriate measures to deal with each individual case of laryngitis.