Vocal cord inflammation is defined as swelling and irritation of the mucous membranes of the larynx, causing loss of voice, hoarseness, and sometimes difficulty swallowing and a dry cough.
It is often caused by a bacterial or viral infection, vocal strain, or exposure to irritants. Treatment focuses on soothing the throat and resting the voice. A doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications.
Symptoms of Vocal Cord Inflammation
Signs of vocal cord inflammation include:
- Changes in voice tone
- Pain when speaking
- Chronic headaches
- Muscle pain
- Swelling of the vocal cords
- Redness of the throat
- Fever
What are the causes of vocal cord inflammation
Vocal cord inflammation results from several factors, including:
- Infections such as viral and bacterial infections
- Shouting, speaking loudly, or talking for extended periods can strain the vocal cords. Allergies: Exposure to allergens and irritants such as smoke can cause chronic inflammation of the vocal cords.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which is the backflow of stomach acid into the larynx.
- Certain diseases, such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or chronic sinusitis.
- Hormonal imbalances, especially testosterone levels.
- The use of corticosteroid medications for lung diseases.
- Bacterial infections.
How is laryngitis diagnosed
The doctor relies on the following tests to diagnose laryngitis:
- A thorough physical examination, where the patient's tongue is lowered and asked to make sounds to identify the problem.
- Laryngoscope: A tube with a special camera at the tip is inserted through the nose or mouth to magnify the vocal cords and look for redness or swelling in the larynx.
- A biopsy of the vocal cords for microscopic examination if any abnormalities are observed during laryngoscopy.
- A complete blood count to detect bacterial infection.
Home Treatment for Vocal Cord Inflammation
The treating physician for vocal cord inflammation focuses on resting the vocal cords. They may prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial infections and corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, while also addressing the underlying cause of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). In chronic cases, surgery may be necessary.
In addition to medication, the doctor will advise the patient to rest completely and avoid speaking to allow the vocal cords to recover. This is a crucial step in the treatment process. Drinking warm liquids can alleviate symptoms, and gargling with a saline solution can reduce swelling associated with the inflammation.
Medications for Vocal Cord Inflammation
- Bepra Tablets
- Vomistop Capsules
- Napizole Capsules
- Magnabiotic Syrup
- Unasyn Tablets
- Xithrone Tablets
- Zisrocin Capsules
- Azrolid Tablets
Ways to Prevent Vocal Cord Inflammation
Vocal cord inflammation can be prevented by:
- Resting your vocal cords, avoiding prolonged talking, and refraining from speaking loudly.
- Drinking warm liquids to alleviate symptoms.
- Dividing your daily meals into smaller portions to avoid overeating.
- Avoiding alcohol, caffeine, and fatty foods, as these can cause heartburn.
- Avoiding eating before bedtime to prevent food from regurgitating while lying down.
- Avoiding inhaling chemical irritants that can worsen symptoms.
Drinks to Treat Vocal Cord Inflammation
Treatment for vocal cord inflammation focuses on warm, soothing drinks, including:
- Warm tea with honey and lemon, which is effective in reducing mucus and soothing the throat.
- Ginger tea with honey and lemon to reduce inflammation.
- Cinnamon tea with honey and warm water.
- Turmeric tea, as turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties.
- Chamomile tea, which is an antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system.
- Gargling with warm salt water helps remove mucus and reduce inflammation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is laryngitis serious
Laryngitis is not serious in most cases, as it can be temporary and resolve on its own. However, it can become serious if left untreated for extended periods, causing difficulty breathing or swallowing, or infection.
Is lemon beneficial for laryngitis
Yes, lemon helps dissolve mucus and phlegm that accumulate in the throat due to inflammation, thus improving breathing, relieving pain, and providing comfort
Is anise beneficial for the vocal cords
Yes, anise is considered a beneficial drink for the vocal cords because it helps soothe the throat and reduce spasms in the larynx.
Article Summary
Laryngitis is defined as swelling and irritation of the mucous membranes of the larynx. It causes hoarseness and loss of voice, and those affected experience difficulty swallowing and a dry cough. It is often caused by a bacterial or viral infection.
It can result from vocal strain, speaking loudly, or exposure to irritants. Treatment initially depends on resting the voice, moisturizing the throat, and drinking warm liquids. The doctor will prescribe anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications.