Laryngitis

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box). In most cases, it gets better without treatment in about a week.

Symptoms of laryngitis

Symptoms of laryngitis can begin suddenly and usually get worse over a period of 2 to 3 days.

Common symptoms of laryngitis include:

• hoarseness
• difficulty speaking
• sore throat
• mild fever
• irritating cough
• a constant need to clear your throat

The hoarse voice and speaking difficulties usually get worse each day you’re ill. They may last for up to a week after the other symptoms have gone.

In a few cases, the larynx can swell and cause breathing difficulties. This isn’t common in adults but can happen in young children who have smaller, narrower windpipes.

Laryngitis is often linked to another illness. For example, a cold, flu, throat infection or tonsillitis. So you might also have other symptoms such as:

• a headache
• swollen glands
• runny nose
• pain when swallowing
• feeling tired and achy

When to get medical advice

Speak to your GP practice if:

You or your child:

• have symptoms that are particularly severe or they last longer than 2 weeks
• experience breathing difficulties

Things you can do to help your symptoms

Do

• drink plenty of water
• try to rest your voice as much as possible

Don’t

• do not smoke
• do not spend time in smoky or dusty places

Treating the underlying cause

If you see your GP, they’ll discuss the possible causes with you and may refer you for tests or to a specialist in hospital.

In some cases, it may be possible to treat the underlying cause of laryngitis. For example, if the symptoms are caused by an allergic reaction, you may be able to:

• avoid the thing you’re allergic to
• take medication to help control your allergy

What causes laryngitis

In most cases, laryngitis is caused by either:

• a viral infection – such as a cold or flu
• irritation to your larynx – for example by straining your voice or reflux

In these cases, most of the symptoms usually pass within a week. This is known as acute laryngitis.

Laryngitis can occasionally last much longer. This is known as chronic laryngitis. Chronic laryngitis can be caused by:

• smoking
• alcohol misuse
• reflux

How to prevent laryngitis

As laryngitis is often caused by a common viral infection, such as a cold or flu, it’s not always possible to prevent it.

There are things you can reduce your risk of developing the condition.

Do

• avoid smoking
• make sure you have the flu vaccine every year if you’re eligible
• wash your hands often, especially before handling food and after using the toilet
• avoid close contact with people who have respiratory infections, such as a cold or flu – particularly if you’re prone to laryngitis
• avoid irritants, such as smoke or dust – particularly if you have a cold or other respiratory infection
• raise your head with pillows when you’re sleeping to protect your larynx from any acid reflux from your stomach during sleep
• avoid regularly clearing your throat as this can irritate the larynx – try small sips of water instead
• follow the low-risk drinking guidelines when drinking alcohol
• avoid shouting or singing loudly or for long periods of time