The term ‘laryngitis’ is often loosely associated with any type of hoarseness that is experienced by an individual. However, it actually is a condition caused due to the inflammation of the larynx, or what is also known as the voice box.
Laryngitis is not caused by just one particular thing. It in fact can have several causes, the most common of which is any kind of viral, fungal or bacterial infection. Severe vocal trauma due to excessive strain and stress on the vocal chords can also cause laryngitis. Acid reflux, due to poor or improper digestion has also been seen as a cause for this condition.
All these can cause the swelling of the larynx tissues. If the inflammation is directly on the vocal chords or in close proximity, it leads to hoarseness of voice and an inability to speak.
Laryngitis is of two types – acute and chronic. Vocal trauma and minor infections can cause acute laryngitis. However, it is mostly acid reflux that causes chronic laryngitis. The vocal chords suffer several lesions due to acid reflux and take a long time to heal. During this entire period, the person suffering from laryngitis has trouble using their vocal chords and might not be able to speak a lot.
The best remedy for laryngitis is to give your vocal chords a complete rest. For a few days, refrain from singing, smoking, talking or breathing from your mouth. Passive smoke could also irritate your throat and aggravate the condition.
Keep a track of all your symptoms. If you have any other symptoms besides pain and inflammation in the larynx – anything like cough, dark colored phlegm or fever, immediately get yourself checked. Continue however, to take rest. No matter how much your symptoms improve, resting is of the utmost importance.
Take some time off work and refrain from going to late night parties and get together events. Your body needs full rest and at least ten hours of sleep. The more you rest, the faster your body will rejuvenate. However, do not just lie down in your bed all day as this will make you very lethargic and will promote malaise. Instead take a very slow stroll outside and stop frequently so that there is no additional pressure on your lungs and throat. With rest, also avoid stimulants like caffeine.
Make sure you gargle every morning with warm water that has salt and a teaspoon of vinegar mixed into it. Do this twice everyday to get relief. Also, brew yourself some chamomile tea. If you don’t have chamomile, you can use peppermint.