The larynx is the voice box or vocal cords located in the neck just below the base of the tongue. Laryngitis is when the larynx becomes inflamed.
Laryngitis is most commonly occurs when there is a respiratory tract infection, especially by parainfluenza and measles viruses. It can also be caused by non-infective reasons including acid reflux from the stomach, excessive coughing, repeated over use of the voice, inhaled irritants or smoking.
The symptoms of laryngitis include:
- hoarse voice
- loss of voice
- an irritating cough
- sore throat
Laryngitis will usually get better by itself over one to two weeks. You can treat the symptoms of laryngitis yourself. Additionally, you should:
- speak as little as possible
- keep hydrated
- use salt water gargles
- stop smoking
Pelargonium may help although there are no clinical trials available to prove this yet. A laboratory study using cells from the larynx showed that Pelargonium stopped bacteria from sticking to the cells. You could also obtain cough syrup or lozenges from a pharmacy.
If you symptoms do not improve after two weeks you should see your GP.