Infectious laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box, or larynx. It has a number of causes, such as fungi, bacteria or viruses, and can be highly contagious. In this blog, we will discuss the common causes, symptoms, and antibiotic treatments for infectious laryngitis.
The Symptoms of Infectious Laryngitis
The most common symptom of infectious laryngitis is a hoarse or raspy voice. This symptom makes it difficult to speak, sing or even whisper. Other symptoms may include a sore throat, coughing, difficulty swallowing, and aching in the throat and neck area. Many people complain of a constant tickling sensation, particularly when they need to speak at length.
See your healthcare provider right away if pain increases, and fever persists. Coughing up blood or having difficulty breathing are danger signs, too, and require prompt medical attention.
Causes of Infectious Laryngitis
Infectious laryngitis is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold or flu. These viruses can spread through respiratory droplets from coughing, sneezing or even talking with someone who is infected.
Bacteria also can cause laryngitis. The most common of these is Streptococcus pyogenes, the germ associated with strep throat. This bacteria spreads through close contact with an infected person or sharing contaminated objects, such as utensils, cups or even computers and phones.
In some cases, fungal infections or other illnesses, such as tuberculosis, can also lead to laryngitis. It is important to seek medical attention with a qualified otolaryngologist, such as Dr. Scott William Franklin in Georgetown, TX, if laryngitis symptoms persist for more than two weeks or if you have difficulty breathing or swallowing. Up to 21 percent of Americans develop chronic laryngitis–that is, repeated infections of the voice box or ongoing irritation.
Treating Infectious Laryngitis
When you seek professional treatment of laryngitis, your ear, nose and throat physician will ask you to detail your symptoms. Also, he will inspect your oral cavity, ears and throat (with an instrument called a laryngoscope) and do manual examination of your neck area. He may do a throat culture to determine if your infection is viral, fungal or bacterial.
For bacterial laryngitis, the usual treatment is a course of antibiotics. Fungal infections require a course of antifungal medication, which can be taken orally like antibiotics.
Antibiotics and antifungals do not work against viral infections. If your doctor determines you have viral laryngitis, they will prescribe rest (including resting your voice) and drinking lots of fluids.
Your ENT may also prescribe corticosteroids. Corticosteroidshelp control inflammation and swelling.
If acid reflux is a concern, the doctor may prescribe antacids to reduce throat irritation, soreness and hoarseness.
Surprisingly, over the counter decongestants are not advisable even if you find yourself clearing your throat a lot. Decongestants are very irritating to the larynx and other areas of the throat, so it is best to avoid them.
Preventing Infectious Laryngitis
To prevent infectious laryngitis, practice good hygiene habits. This includes washing your hands frequently with soap and water, avoiding close contact with people who are sick and covering your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing.
Another important preventive measure is avoiding irritants that can cause inflammation in the throat. These include smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke, and excessive alcohol and caffeine consumption. Watch your intake of spicy foods, too.
Also, try not to strain your voice in order to speak. Less vocalization is better, and in fact, avoid whispering as this can further irritate the larynx. Clearing your throat also strains the larynx. So, as hard as it may be, avoid the temptation to constantly clear your throat.
Also, you should:
- Use non-menthol lozenges whenever your throat feels irritateddue to a cold or flu or from simple overuse
- Put a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture to the air
- Do a saltwater gargle a couple of times a day
- Avoid alcohol and caffeinated beverages
Self-care is very important in both the prevention and treatment of infectious laryngitis. So, pay special attention to your throat if you get a cold, the flu or other respiratory infection.
Treatment for Laryngitis in Georgetown, TX
At Georgetown ENT, we see many cases of infectious laryngitis. Thankfully, our otolaryngologist Dr. Scott William Franklin understands the disease process and how best to treat it and prevent it from recurring.
If you have persistent laryngitis symptoms, please don’t hesitate to contact us for a helpful, in-office visit with Dr. Franklin. Call us at (512) 869-0604, or request your appointment here. We know we can help you feel better and stay healthy.
