Laryngitis: Symptoms, Causes, and Recovery Guide

Laryngitis occurs when your voice box (larynx) or vocal cords become irritated and inflamed. This inflammation causes the vocal cords to swell, which distorts the sounds produced by air passing over them. As a result, your voice sounds hoarse, croaky, or in some cases, vanishes entirely.

In the UK, laryngitis is a common condition often seen alongside the common cold or flu. It is typically categorised into two types: acute laryngitis, which is short-lived and usually caused by a virus, and chronic laryngitis, which lasts longer than three weeks and may be linked to lifestyle factors or underlying health issues.

While the most recognisable sign of laryngitis is a change in your voice, the condition often presents with a range of respiratory symptoms. You may notice:

• Hoarseness: Your voice may sound raspy, breathy, or strained.
• Loss of voice: Difficulty speaking or a complete inability to make sound.
• Sore throat: A tickling sensation or mild pain in the back of the throat.
• Dry cough: A persistent, irritating cough that does not produce mucus.
• Constant need to clear your throat: A feeling that something is 'stuck' or persistent mucus in the larynx.
• Mild fever: Particularly if the laryngitis is caused by a viral infection like the flu.

In children, laryngitis can sometimes lead to 'croup', characterised by a distinctive barking cough and difficulty breathing due to their smaller airways.

Understanding the cause of your laryngitis is essential for determining the correct management plan. The causes are broadly split between infectious and non-infectious triggers.

Viral and Bacterial Infections

The majority of acute laryngitis cases in the UK are caused by viral infections, such as the common cold, influenza, or more recently, COVID-19. Occasionally, a bacterial infection may be the cause, though this is much less common.

Vocal Strain

Overusing your voice can lead to inflammation. This is frequent among people who shout, sing loudly, or speak for long periods without rest (often referred to as 'teacher's voice' or 'singer's nodules' in chronic cases).

Environmental and Lifestyle Triggers

Chronic laryngitis is often caused by long-term exposure to irritants. These include:

• Smoking or exposure to second-hand smoke.
• Excessive alcohol consumption.
• Acid reflux (GORD), where stomach acid travels up the oesophagus and irritates the larynx.
• Inhaling chemical fumes or allergens.
• Frequent use of steroid inhalers for asthma (be sure to rinse your mouth after use).

Most cases of acute laryngitis will clear up on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, you can speed up recovery and manage discomfort with these UK-recommended self-care steps:

• Rest your voice: Avoid talking as much as possible. Contrary to popular belief, whispering actually puts more strain on your vocal cords than speaking softly; it is better to avoid vocalising altogether.
• Hydration: Drink plenty of fluids (water is best) to keep the throat moist.
• Humidify the air: Inhaling steam from a bowl of hot water or using a humidifier can soothe inflamed airways.
• Gargle salt water: A simple saltwater gargle can help reduce throat irritation.
• Avoid irritants: Do not smoke and stay away from smoky environments until your voice has fully returned.
• Pharmacy treatments: Over-the-counter painkillers like paracetamol or ibuprofen can help if you have a sore throat or fever.

While laryngitis is usually a minor ailment, there are times when medical advice is necessary. You should consult a GP if:

• Your symptoms do not improve after 2 to 3 weeks.
• You have persistent hoarseness that doesn't go away.
• You have severe pain or difficulty swallowing.
• You keep getting laryngitis frequently.

For those struggling to get a timely appointment with their local surgery, an online GP consultation can be a convenient way to discuss your symptoms. A doctor can assess whether your laryngitis might be caused by acid reflux or another underlying issue and provide advice on management or a referral to an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) specialist if required.

If you see a GP for persistent laryngitis, they will likely examine your throat and ask about your lifestyle. In some cases, they may refer you for a laryngoscopy, where a small camera is used to look at your vocal cords in detail.

Antibiotics are rarely prescribed for laryngitis because most cases are viral; antibiotics do not kill viruses. Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause. For example, if acid reflux is the trigger, you may be prescribed Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs) to reduce stomach acid. If vocal strain is the issue, speech and language therapy may be recommended to help you use your voice more efficiently.