Laryngitis Directory
Laryngitis is swelling and irritation of your voice box (larynx), which contains your vocal cords. It is one of the most common reasons that a person loses his or her voice or has a hoarse-sounding voice. If these symptoms occur suddenly, the condition is called acute laryngitis. Acute layngitis is most often caused by a viral infection. Some people have long-term, or chronic, laryngitis. Chronic laryngitis may occur if you have acid reflux disease, a yeast infection in the mouth due to asthma inhaler use, or a weakened immune system due to cancer treatments or certain diseases. Follow the links below to find WebMD's comprehensive coverage about how laryngitis develops, how to treat it, and much more.
Medical Reference
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Laryngitis-Topic Overview
What is laryngitis?Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box, or larynx (say LAIR-inks), that causes your voice to become raspy or hoarse. Laryngitis can be short-term or long-lasting (chronic). Most of the time, it comes on quickly and lasts no more than 2 weeks. Chronic symptoms are those that last 2 weeks or longer. Check with your doctor if your symptoms last longer than 2 weeks. Your laryngitis may be caused by more severe problems.What causes laryngitis?Laryngitis can be caused by:Colds or the flu. This is the most common cause. Acid reflux, also known as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Overuse of your voice, such as cheering at a sports event. Irritation, such as from allergies or smoke.Use of inhaled steroid medicines (such as those used to treat asthma). Problems with the way you talk or sing.Acid reflux is the most common cause of chronic laryngitis. But chronic laryngitis may be caused by more severe problems such as nerve damage, sores, polyps, cancer, or hard
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Voice Problems-Topic Overview
What are voice problems?Voice problems usually include pain or discomfort when you speak or difficulty controlling the pitch, loudness, or quality of your voice.As you exhale, air gently passes through your throat, across your open vocal cords, and out your mouth and nose. When you speak, your vocal cords close partially as air travels through them, causing vibrations and the unique sound of your
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Voice Problems-Other Places To Get Help
A list of resources for information on Voice Problems.
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Laryngitis Treatment
Laryngitis is the medical term for inflammation and swelling of the larynx, which is also known as the voice box. WebMD explains causes and treatment.