Treatment and Symptoms of Chronic Laryngitis, Chronic laryngitis is a persistent inflammation of the larynx that lasts for more than three weeks. It is caused by continuous exposure to irritants such as chemical fumes or smoke, and may also result from conditions like acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Laryngitis can last for more than three weeks, and its symptoms appear as hoarseness or temporary loss of voice. It can be caused by many factors, such as excessive shouting and smoking, and can affect people of all ages.
Symptoms of Chronic Laryngitis
The symptoms of chronic laryngitis are similar to those of acute laryngitis. In acute laryngitis, symptoms disappear within one to two weeks, while in chronic laryngitis, symptoms persist for two to three weeks,Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty swallowing.
- Hoarseness.
- Loss and weakness of voice.
- Dry cough.
- Throat irritation.
- Fever.
- Dry throat and a feeling of a lump in the throat.
- Post-nasal drip.
Causes of Chronic Laryngitis
Common causes of laryngitis include:
- Overuse of the voice, such as singing or speaking very loudly.
- Smoking can irritate and swell the vocal cords over time.
- Chronic sinusitis.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
- Excessive alcohol consumption.
- Exposure to dust and toxic chemicals.
- Bronchitis.
- Pneumonia.
- Allergies.
How is Chronic Laryngitis Diagnosed
Diagnosis involves taking a medical history, inquiring about occupation and lifestyle (if the person smokes), noting the symptoms and when they started. The doctor may also order a laryngoscopy for a more detailed examination:
Indirect laryngoscopy involves examining the back of the larynx and throat using a small mirror.
Direct laryngoscopy is performed under general anesthesia and allows for examination of the larynx and the taking of a tissue sample. Direct fiber optic laryngoscopy involves inserting a flexible tube with a camera through the nose and down the throat to examine the throat.
Treatment of Chronic Laryngitis
The treating physician focuses on addressing the underlying causes of laryngitis. This may include prescribing antacids to treat acid reflux, along with lifestyle changes such as avoiding acidic and fatty foods.
Antibiotics are used in cases of infection. The doctor may also recommend quitting smoking, resting the voice to prevent damage to the vocal cords, and in some cases, such as vocal cord paralysis, surgery may be necessary.
Medications for Chronic Laryngitis
- Curam (antibiotic).
- Augmentin tablets.
- Xithrone.
- Zithromax.
- Strepsils lozenges.
- Antodine tablets.
- Noerosive syrup.
- Miopan Plus Syrup.
Home Remedies for Chronic Laryngitis Prevention
- Drink plenty of fluids, choosing caffeine-free beverages to avoid a dry throat.
- Use a humidifier at home, as moist air helps soothe throat irritation.
- Drink ginger tea to soothe a sore throat and relieve coughing.
- Ginger is considered one of the best herbs for treating chronic laryngitis.
- Gargle with warm salt water.
What is the difference between chronic and acute laryngitis
The main difference between chronic and acute laryngitis is the duration of the illness. Chronic laryngitis lasts for longer periods, weeks or months, and may worsen over time. It is often caused by acid reflux or smoking.
Acute laryngitis, on the other hand, lasts for a shorter period, from one to two weeks, and is often caused by a viral infection or vocal strain.
Article Summary
Chronic laryngitis is a condition that causes persistent inflammation of the larynx due to exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke or chemical fumes. It can also be caused by vocal strain or speaking too loudly.
Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the inflammation. It typically involves prescribing antacids to treat acid reflux, along with lifestyle changes, and antibiotics if a bacterial infection is present.