What should you know about virus causing laryngitis?

The larynx contains the vocal cords. When a virus irritates and swells them, the voice may sound rough, weak or breathy. A common cold can bring cough, blocked or runny nose and sore throat alongside the voice change. Speaking for long periods, shouting and repeated throat-clearing can further strain irritated vocal cords.

Acid reflux, smoke and other irritants can also cause hoarseness, so a voice change is not proof of a viral infection. Hoarseness that persists after the other illness has cleared needs assessment.

Rest your voice by speaking briefly and at a comfortable volume. Avoid shouting and whispering, because both can strain the voice. Drink fluids, use humidified air if it feels soothing, and avoid smoke. Treat a blocked nose or sore throat with measures suitable for you. Do not start antibiotics without medical advice, since they do not treat a virus.

A GP Consultation can review persistent hoarse voice, reflux symptoms, medicines and other possible triggers.

Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, inability to swallow fluids, drooling, rapidly increasing throat swelling or a severe deterioration. Arrange a medical review for coughing blood, unexplained weight loss, repeated episodes, or hoarseness that does not settle. Children with breathing difficulty need prompt assessment.

Ask whether the pattern fits viral laryngitis or another cause, how long to rest your voice, whether reflux may contribute, and which symptoms should prompt an examination of the throat or voice box.