What should you know about laryngitis lasting two weeks?

Laryngitis inflames the voice box and commonly causes a hoarse, weak or absent voice, throat irritation and a dry cough. A common cold can trigger it, but persistent symptoms may also relate to acid reflux, repeated voice strain, smoke or other irritation. Hoarse voice lasting two weeks is a reason to arrange a GP consultation so the clinician can examine the throat, review medicines and decide whether further assessment is needed. The duration does not by itself identify the cause.

Rest your voice without whispering, drink fluids, avoid smoking and smoky rooms, and limit alcohol if it worsens throat irritation. Use a humidified environment if dry air aggravates symptoms. Do not repeatedly clear your throat, as this can add friction. If reflux symptoms such as sour taste, burning or symptoms after meals are present, mention them during the consultation rather than starting long-term treatment without advice.

Seek urgent help for difficulty breathing, inability to swallow, drooling, coughing blood, severe neck swelling, chest pain or rapidly worsening illness. Arrange prompt medical review for persistent hoarseness, recurrent episodes, unexplained weight loss, a neck lump, significant pain or symptoms in someone who smokes. A voice change with breathing difficulty should not wait for a routine appointment.

What might be prolonging my laryngitis? Could reflux, voice strain or an inhaled medicine be contributing? Do I need an examination of the vocal cords? Which changes should lead me to seek urgent care?