What should you know about laryngitis?

The voice box sits at the top of the airway and contains the vocal cords. When these tissues swell, they cannot vibrate as smoothly, so speech may sound rough, weak or breathy. The throat may feel dry or sore, and a cough or frequent throat clearing can add more irritation.

A viral respiratory infection, including a Common Cold, is a frequent trigger for a short episode. Voice overuse, smoke, dry air, allergies and Acid Reflux can also irritate the voice box. The same symptom can have different causes, so the duration and accompanying signs matter.

Rest your voice, speak softly rather than whispering, drink fluids and avoid smoking, vaping and dusty air. Humidified air can ease dryness. Try not to clear your throat repeatedly. If reflux may be involved, discuss meal timing, lying down after eating and suitable treatment with a clinician. A GP Consultation is useful when the cause is unclear or symptoms keep returning.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, inability to swallow fluids or rapidly increasing swelling. Arrange a review if hoarseness persists, returns often, or comes with a neck lump, coughing blood, significant pain or unexplained weight loss. A severe Sore Throat with dehydration also needs prompt advice.

Ask what may be irritating your voice box, how long voice rest should continue, and whether persistent symptoms need examination by an ear, nose and throat specialist.