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Laryngitis

Last Updated: July 3, 2026

Key Points

  • Voice box or vocal cords become irritated/swollen
  • Usually resolves within 1-2 weeks
  • Main symptom is a hoarse voice
  • Often linked to colds or flu

Overview

Laryngitis occurs when your voice box (larynx) or vocal cords become irritated or swollen. This inflammation typically leads to changes in your voice, making it sound hoarse or even causing temporary voice loss. It often develops suddenly, frequently as a result of viral infections like colds or flu. Other causes include allergies, acid reflux, or constant throat clearing and coughing. Most cases are mild and clear up on their own within one to two weeks. Self-care measures like resting your voice, staying hydrated, and avoiding irritants are usually effective.

Signs and Symptoms

  • Hoarse (croaky) voice
  • Temporary voice loss
  • Irritating, persistent cough
  • Constant need to clear throat
  • Sore throat
  • Children may have fever (38C+)
  • Children may be off food or drink
  • Children may have difficulty breathing (rare)

Things That Increase the Risk

  • Viral infections (colds, flu)
  • Allergies (dust, fumes)
  • Acid reflux from stomach
  • Chronic coughing
  • Frequent throat clearing
  • Smoking
  • Exposure to smoky or dusty places
  • Dehydration from caffeine or alcohol

Diagnosis

  • GP assesses symptoms
  • Throat examination (small mirror)
  • Throat swab for testing
  • Blood test
  • Referral to ENT specialist (for recurring issues)

Treatment & Management

  • Voice rest (speak as little as possible)
  • Drink plenty of fluids
  • Moisten air (e.g., with bowls of water)
  • Gargle with warm salty water (adults only)
  • Avoid talking loudly or whispering
  • Stop smoking
  • Avoid smoky or dusty places
  • Limit caffeine and alcohol
  • Over-the-counter pain relief (paracetamol, ibuprofen)
  • Cough syrup
  • Gargles or lozenges for pain
  • Antibiotics (if bacterial infection)

Prevention

  • Get flu vaccination
  • Avoid allergy triggers (dust, fumes)
  • Manage acid reflux
  • Avoid chronic coughing
  • Limit constant throat clearing
  • Do not smoke
  • Avoid smoky or dusty places
  • Stay well-hydrated

Available Treatments

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Contents

Quick Info

Affects

Voice box and vocal cords

Prevalence

Common, often linked to colds/flu

Diagnosis

Symptom assessment, throat exam

Treatment

Self-care, voice rest, hydration

Medically Reviewed

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Dr. Vijay Bhat

Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai

Reviewed on July 3, 2026

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