Laryngitis

Functional dysphoniaabnormal use of the vocal mechanisms despite normal anatomy Laryngeal papillomagrowths on the larynx caused by human papilloma viral infection Muscle tension dysphoniaa voice disorder caused by excessive or unequal tension while speakingReinke's edemaan accumulation of fluid in the vocal cords, usually associated with smokingSpasmodic dysphoniaa condition resulting in irregular voice breaksVocal cord paralysisweakness or immobility of the vocal cords Side effects from inhaled medications used for asthma Risk FactorsA risk factor is something that increases your chance of getting a disease or condition. Risk factors include: Smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke Excessive use of the voice as in singing, public speaking, or yellingAllergies to dust, mold, and pollen Excess alcohol consumptionRecent respiratory infection Uncontrolled GERDDehydrationStressRecent travel Symptoms Symptoms include: Hoarseness (raspiness, breathiness, and strain) or loss of voiceChanges in volume (loudness) or in pitch (how high or low the voice is)Sore throatSensation of a "lump" in the throat DiagnosisA doctor should examine you if you experience the following:

Hoarseness that has no obvious cause or has lasted longer than 2-3 weeks Hoarseness with difficulty swallowing or breathing, coughing up blood, a lump in the neck, or throat pain out of proportion to that usually seen with the common cold For some of these symptoms, emergency medical evaluation is indicated. If you have any questions about how quickly to seek care, call your doctor or a local emergency facility.Complete loss of voice or severe change in voice lasting longer than a few daysYour doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam.You may be referred to an otolaryngologist, also called an ENT (ear, nose, throat) doctor, if your laryngitis does not have an easily identified cause or cure.An ENT doctor will also ask about your medical history and examine your voicebox using a flexible, lighted scope that is passed through your nose and down the back of the throat. In some cases, the doctor will place a mirror in the back of your mouth to see your voicebox. Under some circumstances, other tests may be indicated to evaluate swallowing mechanisms or other processes related to normal voice functioning. Treatment Laryngitis caused by seasonal allergies, cold or flu , or other viral respiratory infection usually resolves itself within two weeks. To relieve symptoms during this time:

Rest your voice.Drink plenty of fluids.Avoid smoking.Take nonprescription pain relievers (ie, acetaminophen, ibuprofen) as needed.Try steam inhalation. Treating the Underlying IllnessManaging underlying illnesses, such as GERD or viral infections, often relieves laryngitis. SurgerySurgery may be performed to treat growths on the vocal cords, vocal cord paralysis, or some other laryngeal disorders. Voice Therapy Laryngitis as a result of voice overuse usually resolves itself within a few days. Voice therapy is often used to treat voice problems, especially those related to vocal overuse. Voice therapy consists of: Voice educationHealthy use of the voiceInstruction in proper voice technique and use of the breathing musclesThe Alexander techniquea method to treat voice impairment by practicing proper breathing and posture Prevention You may not be able to prevent some of the illnesses and disorders that can cause laryngitis. However, to prevent and treat mild hoarseness related to laryngitis, the American Academy of Otolaryngology, Head, and Neck Surgery recommends the following: If you smoke, quit.Avoid secondhand smoke.Avoid agents that can dehydrate the body, such as alcohol and caffeine.Drink plenty of fluids.Humidify your home.Avoid acidic or spicy foods if you are prone to GERD.Try not to use your voice for too long or too loudly.Seek professional voice training.Avoid speaking or singing when your voice is injured or hoarse. RESOURCES:

American Academy of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgeryhttp://www.entnet.org University of Pittsburgh Voice Centerhttp://voicecenter.upmc.com CANADIAN RESOURCES: Canadian Health Networkhttp://www.canadian-health-network.ca Health Canadahttp://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/index_e.html References: American Academy of OtolaryngologyHead and Neck Surgery website. Available at: http://www.entnet.org . University of Pittsburgh Voice Center website. Available at: http://voicecenter.upmc.com . Last reviewed October 2007 by Elie Edmond Rebeiz, MD, FACSPlease be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.