Laryngitis - Treatment

Treatment

In most instances, the symptoms accompanying laryngitis are more directly linked to the causative factor, such as a viral infection, like the common cold. In cases caused by overuse of the voice, symptoms other than vocal impairment may be absent. Laryngitis, hoarseness or breathiness that lasts for more than two weeks may signal a voice disorder and should be followed up with a voice pathologist. This is typically a vocology certified SLP (speech language pathologist) or a laryngologist (voice specialized ENT). Use a humidifier or a vaporizer to create moisture.

In most cases, laryngitis is viral:

  • The patient may be instructed to drink lots of fluids, such as when one has a cold.

If laryngitis is due to gastroesophageal reflux:

  • The patient may be instructed to take a medication such as Ranitidine or Omeprazole for a period of 4-6 weeks.

If laryngitis is due to a bacterial or fungal infection:

  • The patient may be prescribed a course of antibiotics or anti-fungal medication.

If persistent hoarseness or loss of voice (dysphonia) is a result of vocal cord nodules:

  • Physicians may recommend a course of treatment that may include a surgical procedure and/or speech therapy.
  • Reduction of high-impact stress to the vocal cords caused by loud, frequent, and high-pitched voicing is recommended.

Treatment Approach:

  • In most cases, you can treat laryngitis yourself by resting your voice. Antibiotics are almost never needed because most cases of laryngitis are caused by a virus (not bacteria).

Read more about this topic:  Laryngitis

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