Laryngitis Treatment

Lifestyle Modifications

To reduce irritation, promote healing of the vocal cords, and alleviate symptoms.

• Vocal rest, speaking as little as possible and avoiding whispering or shouting, which can strain the vocal cords.
• Maintain good hydration by drinking plenty of fluids and avoiding dehydrating substances like caffeine and alcohol.
• Humidify the air in your environment, especially indoors, to prevent vocal cords from drying out.
• Avoid irritants such as smoking, passive smoke, and dusty or polluted environments.
• Gargle with warm salt water (not suitable for young children) to help soothe a sore throat.

Medicinal Treatment

To manage pain, reduce inflammation, treat underlying infections, and alleviate associated symptoms.

• Over-the-counter pain relievers such as paracetamol or ibuprofen to manage pain and reduce inflammation.
• Cough syrups or lozenges to help alleviate persistent coughing and soothe a sore throat.
• Prescription antibiotics may be considered by a GP if a bacterial infection is identified as the underlying cause, though viral infections are more common.
• Medications to treat underlying conditions, such as acid reflux, if it is contributing to chronic laryngitis.

Surgical Treatment

To diagnose and treat underlying structural or chronic conditions that contribute to recurrent or persistent voice problems, rather than acute laryngitis itself.

• Diagnostic laryngoscopy to visually examine the vocal cords and larynx for any structural abnormalities, lesions, or other conditions contributing to chronic voice problems.
• Removal of vocal cord lesions, such as polyps, nodules, or cysts, which may be causing persistent hoarseness or recurrent laryngitis.
• Procedures to address severe and persistent acid reflux (e.g., fundoplication) if conservative measures fail and reflux is a primary cause of chronic laryngeal irritation.

Surgical intervention is rarely required for acute laryngitis. It is typically considered for diagnostic purposes or to address chronic underlying conditions that cause recurrent voice issues or severe laryngeal damage.