Laryngitis Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Definition
Laryngitis is a condition where inflammation (irritation) occurs in the larynx (voice box). Whereas in the larynx there are vocal cords. Under normal conditions, the vocal cords open and close smoothly, forming sound through the movement and vibrations it creates.
When there is irritation and inflammation in the voice box, the vocal cords will swell. This triggers a change in the sound produced. That is why when you have laryngitis, your voice becomes hoarse and you feel uncomfortable when you speak. In some cases, the sound that comes out can be so weak that it is inaudible.
In general, laryngitis can be divided into two, namely: acute and chronic conditions. Acute laryngitis usually lasts a short time. While the chronic lasts a long time (more than three weeks).
Symptoms
There are several symptoms of laryngitis or the most common, namely:
- Hoarse or very weak voice – may even disappear completely
- Pain when swallowing and chewing
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Itchy feeling in the throat
- Throat feels dry
- Fever – which can occur in some cases
In children, the small airway structures sometimes cause shortness of breath. This is very rare in adults.
Reason
Acute laryngitis can be caused by several things which include:
- Vocal abuse, for example, excessive shouting and talking too much
- Exposure to hazardous chemicals
- Infections caused by germs, viruses, and bacteria
There are also rarer causes. For example, an autoimmune condition in which the body’s immune system attacks the body’s own normal tissues. Autoimmune disorders that may cause strep throat are rheumatoid arthritis, Wegener’s granulomatosis, and sarcoidosis.
While chronic laryngitis is generally caused by environmental factors. For example due to inhaling cigarette smoke or continuously polluted air, vocal abuse, and rising stomach acid into the throat.
When you feel the symptoms of laryngitis coming, there are certain actions you can take at home. One of them is to rest the use of voice. It’s best to keep voice use to a minimum to prevent further inflammation. In addition, increase your immune system by getting enough rest, eating a balanced diet, and increasing your consumption of water.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of laryngitis or is carried out by several stages. The doctor will collect detailed information and a thorough physical examination. Gathering information includes symptoms of laryngitis or what you feel.
Through physical examination, a red and swollen laryngeal appearance can be found (although showing the larynx is not mandatory). In general, no laboratory or radiological examinations are required. This examination will only be carried out if there is suspicion of other comorbidities.
Treatment
Handling laryngitis or will be adjusted to the causative factor. If it is caused by a viral infection, an increase in body resistance is needed. This can be done by getting enough rest and eating nutritious food. Drinking water can also help relieve symptoms on its own.
However, if the doctor suspects a bacterial infection, additional antibiotics will be needed. In addition, laryngitis is generally or will heal itself by avoiding vocal abuse. This means you need to rest your vocal cords and avoid irritants (smoke and polluted air).
You can prevent laryngitis or laryngitis from occurring. The trick is to avoid vocal abuse (eg, shouting excessively, talking a lot), avoiding infection due to germs by increasing the body’s resistance and staying away from sources of infection. In addition, avoid exposure to polluted air for a long time – such as cigarette smoke, vehicle fumes.