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Laryngitis
OVERVIEW: Laryngitis is an inflammation of the lining of the larynx. It is most common during late fall,
winter, and early spring. In predisposed individuals may also occur intermittently during period of vocal misuse or abuse. It can be acute (of short duration) or chronic (long-lasting).
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS: • Hoarseness
• Abnormal sounding voice
• Inability to speak
• Throat tickling
• Feeling of rawness in throat
• Constant urge to clear the throat
• Fever
• Malaise
• Painful or difficult swallowing
• Throat pain
• Cough
• Enlarged lymph glands in neck
CAUSES: • Infections, viral or bacterial
• Excessive use of voice
• Inhaling irritating substances
• Aspiration of caustic chemical
• Aging
• Damage during surgery
• Esophageal reflux
SCOPE: Laryngitis is common.
MOST OFTEN AFFECTED: Laryngitis affects all ages, males and females in equal numbers.
RISK FACTORS: • Upper respiratory tract infection
• Bronchitis
• Pneumonia
• Influenza (flu)
• Pertussis (whooping cough)
• Measles
• Allergy
• Chronic rhinitis
• Chronic sinusitis
• Voice abuse
• Reflux of gastric contents
• Smoking
• Alcohol abuse
• Constant exposure to dust or other irritants
DIAGNOSIS PHYSICAL EXAMINATION: • The Physician will evaluate the patient for the presence of laryngitis.
• Other conditions that can cause similar signs and symptoms include croup, measles, diphtheria, vocal cord nodules, and throat cancer.
TESTS AND PROCEDURES: • Blood tests
• A sample of fluid from the throat may be obtained for laboratory analysis.
• The throat may be examined by laryngoscopy.
• A sample of tissue may be obtained by biopsy to assist in diagnosis.
TREATMENT GENERAL MEASURES: • Laryngitis is usually managed in the outpatient setting.
• Acute laryngitis
• Usually a self-limited illness and not severe
• Vocal conservation without excessive voice use
• Steam inhalations or cool-mist humidifier
• Increase fluid intake
• Pain relievers
• Avoid smoking (or second-hand smoke) during acute phase
• Chronic
• Symptomatic treatment as above
• Voice therapy
• Stop smoking
• Reduce alcohol intake
• Occupational change or modification, if needed
• For reflux laryngitis: elevate head of bed, other antireflux management
• Surgery may be necessary.
ACTIVITY: Rest until fever subsides, then no restrictions.
DIET: No special diet
MEDICATIONS COMMONLY PRESCRIBED DRUGS: • Pain relievers
• Antifever drugs
• Cough suppressants
• Penicillin, erythromycin (for bacterial laryngitis)
CONTRAINDICATIONS: Read drug product information.
PRECAUTIONS: Read drug product information.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Read drug product information.
Other Drugs: N/A
FOLLOW UP PATIENT MONITORING: No followup is usually needed.
PREVENTION/AVOIDANCE: • Avoid overuse of voice.
• Prompt treatment of respiratory infections
• Flu vaccine for high-risk individuals
COMPLICATIONS: • Pain relievers
• Antifever drugs
• Cough suppressants
• Penicillin, erythromycin (for bacterial laryngitis)
WHAT TO EXPECT: Complete clearing of the inflammation without long-term effects
MISCELLANEOUS OTHER FACTORS: N/A
PEDIATRIC: Laryngitis is common in children.
GERIATRIC: The elderly may have more severe symptoms and may be slower to heal.
OTHERS: N/A
PREGNANCY: Use antibiotics with caution.
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