Laryngitis

 Laryngitis

Laryngitis is inflammation and swelling of mucus membrane lining of larynx (voice box), part of upper respiratory tract.

It cause hoarseness of voice.

Mostly caused by viral infection.

Classification of Laryngitis

1. Acute Laryngitis

Causes;

1. Viral infection; common cold

2. Overusing voice

3. Virus such as; measles, mumps

4. Bacterial infection; 

Diphtheria 

2. Chronic laryngitis

It can cause vocal cod strain, injury or polyps in vocal cord. 

Causes;

1. Inhaled irritants; allergens, chemicals or smoking

2. GERD (gastrointestinal reflux disease)

3. Chronic sinusitis 

4. Bronchitis

5. Chronic respiratory infection

6. Continuous overusing of voice

Pathophysiology

Invasion of microorganisms into laryngeal mucosa 

Immune system activate; antibody and antigen reaction

Releasing of inflammatory mediators

Inflammation of laryngeal mucosa

Edematous of vocal cord

Persistent voice disability

Clinical Manifestations

1. Weak voice/ voice loss

2. Dry, sore throat

3. Dry cough

4. Cold, flu like symptoms

5. Fever

6. Swollen lymph nodes

7. Pain in swallowing

8. Feeling of fullness in throat or neck

9. Difficulty in breathing

10. Tickling sensation

Diagnostic Evaluation

1. Throat swab culture

2. CBC

3. Laryngoscopy

4. Biopsy

Management

1. Antipyretic and analgesic

Acetaminophen

2. Antibiotics

3. Antifungal medication

4. Corticosteroids

5. Supportive treatment for viral Laryngitis

6. Avoid upper respiratory infection

7. Drink plenty of water

8. Take a voice break

9. Moisten throat

Lozenges, gargle wath salt water