Meaning of Laryngitis

The inflammation of the voice box or larynx (containing vocal cord) is called laryngitis. The vocal cords open and close to create speech, but the sound becomes faint and distorted when the vocal cords are swollen.

Laryngitis Symptoms

1. Dry cough, sore or scratchy throat.
2. Increasing difficulty in producing normal sound and hoarseness ranging from mild to severe.
3. Occasional fever and a frequent need to clear the throat.

Causes of Laryngitis

1. Acute laryngitis is caused by viral or bacterial infection.
2. Overusing the voice, shouting, authoritative voices that are low pitched can cause inflammation that results in hoarseness.
3. Chemicals, mouth breathing, smoking, exposure to dust are the causes of chronic laryngitis.

Home remedies for Laryngitis

1. When you have a hoarse voice, speak only when it is absolutely necessary in a soft voice.
2. Avoid whispering.
3. \Cough gently but do not try to clear your throat.
4. Lubricate your vocal cords by drinking at least 8 glasses of water.
5. Use a humidifier or vaporizer to increase the humidity in the surroundings.
6. Glycerin-throat lozenges maybe helpful.

Prevent Laryngitis

1. Avoid decongestants, anti-histamines, cigarettes and alcohol that dry throat.
2. Speak softly when you are using telephone for long periods.
3. Do not pitch your voice unnaturally high or low.