A – Z of Illnesses & Conditions

Laryngitis: Laryngitis is the swelling and irritation (inflammation) of the voice box (larynx) that is usually associated with loss of voice or hoarseness. The voice box (larynx) is located at the top of the airway to the lungs (trachea). The lump at the front of your throat, commonly known as the Adam’s apple, is your larynx. The larynx contains the vocal cords. When the vocal cords become inflamed or infected, they swell. This can cause hoarseness and may sometimes block the airway.

The most common form of laryngitis is an infection caused by a virus, such as cold or flu viruses. It may also be caused by allergies, bronchitis, injury, pneumonia, bacterial infection, smoking and alcohol misuse.

Certain forms of laryngitis such as Croup and Epiglottitis occur in children that can lead to dangerous or fatal respiratory blockage. Patients with hoarseness that lasts for more than a month (especially smokers) need to see an ear, nose and throat doctor (otolaryngologist) for tests of the throat and upper airway.