Symptoms of viral laryngitis

Laryngitis is inflammation of the voice box, where the vocal cords vibrate to make sound. Swelling changes the voice, so it may sound rough, breathy or unusually quiet; some people temporarily lose their voice. A sore throat, tickling cough, throat clearing and tiredness can accompany the illness. A common cold is a frequent trigger, while acid reflux, voice strain and irritants can cause similar symptoms.

The sound of the voice cannot identify the cause by itself. Persistent hoarseness, repeated episodes or symptoms without a cold deserve a clinical review so other conditions can be considered.

Rest your voice by speaking gently and briefly; whispering can strain the voice, so use writing or messages when possible. Drink fluids, avoid smoking and smoky air, and use humidified air if it feels soothing. Avoid repeated throat clearing. Antibiotics do not treat a viral cause, and cough or reflux medicines should be chosen with appropriate advice.

Get urgent help for difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, inability to swallow saliva, drooling, or rapidly worsening throat swelling. Arrange a GP consultation if hoarseness is persistent, keeps returning, is accompanied by coughing blood, or follows an injury or heavy voice use. Seek review sooner when a child has breathing difficulty or appears unusually unwell.

Ask whether the pattern fits a viral infection or reflux, how long voice rest should continue, and which soothing treatments are suitable. Ask when persistent hoarseness needs examination of the vocal cords and which warning signs require urgent care.