INFLAMMATION OF THE VOICE BOX
Laryngitis
An inflammation of the larynx (voice box) causing hoarseness, voice loss, throat discomfort and dry cough. Most cases are short-lived and improve with voice rest and supportive care.
ABOUT THIS CONDITION
What is Laryngitis
Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx — the voice box — which contains the vocal cords. It is most often caused by viral infections, but can also result from voice overuse, exposure to irritants such as smoke or chemicals, acid reflux, allergies and, less commonly, bacterial infection. Typical features include hoarseness, weak voice or complete loss of voice, throat discomfort, dry cough and a tickling sensation in the throat. Acute laryngitis typically lasts a few days to two weeks and settles with voice rest, hydration and supportive care. Chronic laryngitis lasting more than three weeks needs further evaluation, particularly in smokers, to rule out reflux, vocal cord nodules or rarely, more serious conditions. Dr. Patnam Pravallika Reddy provides complete laryngitis assessment and care at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad.
SIGNS TO WATCH
Common Symptoms
Symptoms that need attention
WHY IT HAPPENS
Causes & Risk Factors
- Viral infection — most common cause
- Voice overuse — singing, shouting or prolonged speaking
- Smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke
- Acid reflux from the stomach (reflux laryngitis)
- Exposure to chemicals, dust or strong odours
- Allergies affecting the throat
- Less commonly, bacterial or fungal infection
CLINICAL DETAILS
KeyFacts
Clinical evaluation; ENT examination of the vocal cords in chronic cases
Acute (up to 3 weeks) · Chronic (more than 3 weeks)
Voice rest, hydration and supportive care; treating underlying cause
Chronic laryngitis, smokers and persistent hoarseness need ENT evaluation
Avoid voice overuse, smoking and irritants; manage acid reflux
Available at Lux Hospitals, Hyderabad
HOW WE TREAT IT
Treatment Approach
Voice Rest with Cause-Specific Care
The most effective approach combines voice rest, hydration and humidified air for the majority of acute cases, with treatment of underlying causes — reflux, allergies, smoking or voice overuse — and ENT referral for chronic or persistent symptoms.
- 1
Consultation & Assessment
Dr. Pravallika reviews voice use, smoking history, reflux symptoms and overall health, and arranges ENT referral for chronic cases.
- 2
Treatment Planning
A personalised plan is created with voice rest, treatment of underlying causes and lifestyle adjustments.
- 3
Medical Management
Supportive care, treatment of reflux or allergy where present, and antibiotics or antifungal therapy only when clearly indicated.
- 4
Recovery & Follow-up
Follow-up review for persistent or chronic cases, with ENT referral and further testing when needed.
AVAILABLE TREATMENTS
Treatment Options
Voice Rest
Resting the voice as much as possible during the acute phase allows the inflamed vocal cords to heal.
Hydration and Humidified Air
Plenty of fluids and using humidifiers or steam inhalation help soothe the throat and support recovery.
Treatment of Underlying Cause
Addressing factors such as smoking, acid reflux, voice overuse or allergies is essential for full recovery and to prevent recurrence.
Voice Therapy in Selected Cases (Referral for speech therapy)
Patients with chronic laryngitis from voice overuse benefit from professional voice therapy and training.
ENT Referral for Persistent Cases (Referral for ENT evaluation)
Hoarseness lasting more than three weeks, especially in smokers, needs ENT evaluation with vocal cord examination.
COMMON QUESTIONS
Frequently Asked Questions
Not sure about your condition?
Compassionate, confidential consultations — Book your appointment today.