Laryngitis from vomiting

Retching creates pressure across the throat, and stomach contents can wash over the larynx. The result may be a hoarse voice, burning soreness, cough or a sensation of rawness. Repeated episodes can keep the tissue inflamed. [Acid Reflux](/conditions/acid-reflux/) can cause similar irritation without vomiting, so tell a clinician if burning or sour fluid also reaches your throat.

A small amount of throat irritation may settle after the stomach problem improves. Vomiting blood, severe chest or throat pain, dehydration, or a voice change that does not improve needs medical attention because another problem may be present.

Take frequent small sips of water or an oral rehydration drink if you can keep fluids down. Rinse your mouth with water after vomiting and avoid forceful throat clearing. Rest your voice, avoid shouting and stay away from smoke. Once nausea settles, choose gentle foods in amounts you tolerate and follow advice given for the cause of vomiting. A [GP Consultation](/treatments/consultations-and-assessment/gp-consultation/) can review repeated vomiting, reflux symptoms and medicines.

Get urgent help for trouble breathing, noisy breathing, inability to swallow liquids, repeated vomiting with inability to keep fluids down, severe chest pain, faintness or blood in vomit. Arrange a review for hoarseness that persists, painful swallowing, recurrent vomiting or symptoms of dehydration such as very little urine and marked dizziness. A clinician can decide whether your throat, voice box or digestive symptoms need further assessment.

Ask what may be causing the vomiting, whether reflux is contributing to the voice change, which fluids are suitable, and what symptoms should prompt same-day help.