Contents |
Types
It is categorized as acute if it lasts less than a few days. [1] Otherwise it is categorized as chronic.
Causes
Laryngitis is often caused by a virus or by bacteria. Other causes include smoking, various allergies, reflux and straining the voice through singing or shouting.
Home treatments
- Ibuprofen and aspirin may help alleviate fever and some of the discomfort associated with laryngitis
- Avoid speaking when possible. Speak softly, but do not whisper
- Drink warm liquids such as tea or a honey-lemon drink
- Take cough drops/throat lozenges. If unavailable, suck on hard candy.
- Stay hydrated, drink plenty of liquids; water, orange juice, etc.
- Humidifiers and warm showers can also help alleviate some symptoms.
- Avoid airborne irritants such as smoke and allergens.
- Gargle with a salt water rinse; avoid mouth rinses containing alcohol which can dry the throat (however, these can be helpful when the cause of the infection is bacteria
