Smoking has a negative impact on the larynx, causing inflammation and chronic irritation that can lead to hoarseness, increased phlegm production, and difficulty speaking. Smoking is also a leading cause of death.
Therefore, it is crucial to avoid smoking, as the toxins from cigarettes entering the bloodstream increase the risk of blood clots and high blood pressure, and reduce the amount of oxygen reaching the cells.
What is the effect of smoking on the larynx
One of the risks of smoking on the larynx is an increased risk of laryngeal cancer. If not detected or treated in its early stages, laryngeal cancer can spread to other parts of the body, such as the lungs or tongue.
Smoking can also cause irritation in the larynx, increasing the likelihood of chronic inflammation. Studies indicate that smokers are more likely to die prematurely from laryngeal cancer than non-smokers.
Symptoms of smoking on the larynx
- Changes in voice and hoarseness.
- A feeling of strain in the larynx when singing or speaking.
- Difficulty swallowing. Chronic cough with phlegm.
- Weakened immunity, making the body more susceptible to infections.
- Shortness of breath and spasms.
- Throat irritation and increased phlegm production.
- Ear pain.
Treating the Effects of Smoking on the Throat at Home
The most important step in treating the effects of smoking on the throat is to quit smoking immediately and use medications that help with cessation, such as nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) like patches, lozenges, and inhalers, or medications that reduce nicotine cravings.
Anti-inflammatory medications such as corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce swelling and inflammation in the throat and airways. Bronchodilators may be prescribed for shortness of breath, and pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen may be used to alleviate pain and inflammation.
Medications that Treat Laryngitis Caused by Smoking
- Champix tablets.
- Butalin inhaler.
- Mucophylline syrup.
- Mucosol Syrup.
- Ventolin Syrup.
- Combivent Solution.
- Aironyl Tablets.
- Helixbrom Syrup.
- Mepacofen Tablets.
- Fenoprofen Capsules.
How does smoking affect health
Smoking can cause laryngeal or lung cancer, and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease Other risks include:
- Smoking is the leading cause of blindness in adults because it increases the risk of age-related macular degeneration.
- It increases the risk of type 2 diabetes and is a risk factor for complications such as poor blood flow to the legs and feet.
- It can cause erectile dysfunction because it constricts blood vessels throughout the body that supply the genitals, thus reducing blood flow.
- It can cause gum disease because smoking damages the bone that protects the gums, leading to tooth loss.
- Smokers experience a rapid decrease in bone density, making them more susceptible to fractures throughout the body.
- Smoking can negatively impact fertility in women, leading to pregnancy complications.
- Smoking increases the risk of ectopic pregnancy.
- Smokers are also at increased risk of rheumatoid arthritis, a chronic inflammatory disease.
- Smoking increases the risk of colorectal cancer.
Preventing Laryngitis
To alleviate and prevent the symptoms of laryngitis caused by smoking, it is important to follow these tips:
- Rest your voice and avoid shouting, speaking loudly, or singing. Minimize talking as much as possible, as it strains the vocal cords.
- Drink plenty of warm fluids, such as herbal teas and water, to keep your throat moist.
- Avoid alcohol and caffeine, and stay away from cigarette smoke and dust.
- Inhale steam using a humidifier or steam inhaler.
- Gargle with salt water several times a day.
- Add honey to warm drinks to soothe the pain.
- Eat easily digestible foods, such as soup, during treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does smoking cause to the throat
Smoking causes a dry throat and can also cause inflammation of the vocal cords.
Does smoking affect the vocal cords
Yes, smoking can cause some side effects, such as long-term damage to the vocal cords. It can negatively affect the voice and sometimes cause chronic laryngitis or loss of voice.
Does the voice return to normal after quitting smoking
Yes, while some people notice changes in their voices within a few weeks of quitting, it may take several months for the irritation of the vocal cords and larynx to subside.
Does smoking hurt the throat
Yes, it increases acidity and the symptoms of acid reflux, such as irritation and pain in the throat.
Article Summary
Smoking damages the larynx and causes chronic inflammation and irritation, conditions that lead to hoarseness, voice changes, and increased phlegm production.
Smoking increases the risk of developing laryngeal and lung cancer, which can cause difficulty in speaking, and long-term symptoms such as chronic cough and difficulty swallowing may appear.