What are the Symptoms of Laryngitis?
October 9, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) that can cause various symptoms related to the voice and throat. Common symptoms of laryngitis include:
- Hoarseness or loss of voice: The most typical symptom, characterized by a raspy, weak, or deepened voice, or even complete loss of voice.
- Sore throat: Throat discomfort, pain, or irritation, especially when speaking or swallowing.
- Dry or scratchy throat: A persistent feeling of dryness or scratchiness in the throat.
- Throat clearing: An increased need to clear the throat due to irritation or mucus buildup.
- Cough: A dry or mild cough may be present due to irritation in the throat.
- Difficulty swallowing or talking: Mild difficulty in swallowing food or liquids, and sometimes discomfort or pain while talking.
- Mild fever: In some cases, laryngitis can be accompanied by a low-grade fever.
- Tickling sensation: A feeling of irritation or tickling in the back of the throat, which can trigger coughing or the need to clear the throat.
- Fatigue or tiredness: Feeling unusually tired or run-down, especially if the condition persists for an extended period.
It’s important to rest the voice, stay hydrated, and avoid irritants such as smoke, excessive talking, yelling, or exposure to dry air. If symptoms persist for more than a week, worsen, or are associated with high fever, it’s advisable to consult a healthcare professional for proper evaluation and management. Laryngitis is often a result of viral infections or overuse of the vocal cords, but it can also be caused by other factors like bacterial infections or irritants.