Laryngitis
Overview
Laryngitis is when your voice box or vocal cords in the throat become irritated or swollen. It usually goes away by itself within 1 to 2 weeks.
Symptoms
Laryngitis usually comes on suddenly and gets worse during the first 3 days. The main symptoms are: a hoarse (croaky) voicesometimes losing your voicean irritating cough that does not go awayalways needing to clear your throata sore throat Children can also: have a temperature of 38C or abovebe off their food or drinkhave difficulty breathing (but this is rare) Laryngitis is often linked to other illnesses, such as colds and flu, so you may also have other symptoms.
Causes
Laryngitis usually happens when you have an infection from a virus, such as cold or flu. Aflu vaccinationwill help prevent you getting flu. Other things that cause laryngitis include: allergies to things like dust and fumesacid from your stomach coming up your throat (acid reflux)coughing over a long timeclearing your throat all the time
Treatment
Rest voice (don't whisper); drink fluids; gargle salty water. Humidify air. Stop smoking.
Prevention
Wash hands (avoid viruses); don't strain voice; flu jab. Avoid smoke.
When to see a doctor
See GP if: lasts >3 weeks; very painful; breathing difficulty (Call 999). Lump in neck.