Asthma and laryngitis: symptoms and self-care

Laryngitis commonly causes a hoarse or weak voice and may follow a viral illness. Asthma more often causes wheeze, chest tightness, cough and shortness of breath. Having laryngitis does not mean an asthma attack is occurring, although infection and coughing can aggravate asthma in some people.

A rough voice, discomfort when speaking, a dry throat and an urge to clear the throat point toward irritation of the voice box. Wheezing from the chest, breathlessness and reduced response to usual activity fit lower-airway narrowing. Acid reflux, smoke exposure, heavy voice use and some infections can irritate the larynx.

Symptoms can overlap, so pay attention to where the noise seems to come from and whether your prescribed reliever improves breathing. A clinician can listen to the chest, examine the mouth and throat, and review asthma control when the distinction is unclear.

Use asthma medicines according to your prescription and action plan. Drink fluids, reduce talking, avoid whispering or shouting, and stay away from tobacco smoke, vaping and other known airway irritants. Antibiotics do not treat viral laryngitis and should only be used when prescribed for a confirmed or suspected bacterial problem.

If you use a steroid preventer inhaler, rinse your mouth and spit afterwards. Check your technique with a pharmacist, nurse or doctor, since poor technique can leave medicine in the throat. Do not inhale steam from boiling water because burns can occur.

Call emergency services if breathing is severely difficult, you cannot speak comfortably because of breathlessness, your lips look blue or grey, you become drowsy or confused, or your reliever is not helping as your asthma plan says it should. Noisy breathing from the throat, drooling, or inability to swallow also warrants emergency care.

Arrange a clinical review when the voice change persists or repeatedly returns, asthma symptoms are waking you or limiting normal activity, or you develop a neck lump, blood in saliva, painful swallowing or unexplained weight loss. An examination can identify whether the voice box, lungs, reflux or inhaler use needs attention.

Describe whether hoarseness started before or after the cough, which inhalers you use, and whether symptoms change after meals, at night or during exercise. Ask for an inhaler demonstration, clarification of your asthma action plan, and advice on whether persistent voice symptoms need examination by an ear, nose and throat specialist.