Laryngitis: symptoms, causes, and treatment
Understanding Laryngitis
Laryngitis is an inflammatory disease of the mucous membrane of the larynx, often caused by viruses or bacteria. It is characterized by symptoms such as hoarseness, cough, itching, and pain in the throat. Understanding laryngitis is based on studying the pathogenesis of the disease, including the mechanisms of inflammation and factors that contribute to its development, which is important for prescribing effective treatment and preventing complications.
Factors contributing to the development of Laryngitis
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- Viral infections: Laryngitis can occur as a result of a viral infection, such as influenza or ARVI.
- Bacterial infection: Some cases of laryngitis are caused by a bacterial infection that requires antibiotics for treatment.
- Smoking: Smoking and passive exposure to smoke can irritate the throat and contribute to the development of laryngitis.
- Voice use: Prolonged and improper use of the voice, especially when shouting or singing, can lead to irritation of the vocal cords and cause laryngitis.
- Allergies: Reactions to allergens, such as pollen or dust, can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat’s mucous membrane, contributing to laryngitis.
Types and Symptoms of Laryngitis
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- Active inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa: accompanied by severe throat itching, hoarse or intermittent voice, and pain when swallowing.
- Prolonged coughing periods: cough in laryngitis is often dry and aching, sometimes with difficult-to-expectorate phlegm.
- Sensation of a lump in the throat: patients complain of a foreign body sensation in the larynx area, which leads to discomfort when swallowing.
- Elevated body temperature: the presence of inflammation is accompanied by an increase in temperature, which is often observed in laryngitis.
- Deterioration of voice and loss of voice: characterized by a hoarse, raspy voice or complete loss of voice due to inflammation of the larynx and vocal fold ligaments.
Expert opinions on the treatment of Laryngitis
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Methods of diagnosing Laryngitis
The definition of Laryngitis is usually based on the symptoms of the affected patient, such as hoarseness, cough, difficulty swallowing, and pain while swallowing. A medical professional may also conduct a physical examination, inspect using a laryngoscope, and auscultate the larynx.
Additional diagnostic methods may include microlaryngoscopy for a more detailed study of the laryngeal mucosa, as well as laboratory tests such as throat culture or smear analysis to identify the causative agent of the infection. In some cases, additional examinations may be required, such as a computed tomography scan of the larynx to assess structural changes.
- Physical examination: The doctor conducts an examination of the larynx and pharyngoscopy to identify signs of inflammation and tumors.
- Laryngoscopy: Conducting an examination using a laryngoscope for a detailed inspection of the mucous membrane and vocal cords.
- Microlaryngoscopy: A special examination to obtain additional information about the condition of the larynx at a microscopic level.
- Laboratory tests: Include throat cultures and smear analysis, which allow for the identification of the infection’s causative agent.
- Additional examinations: In some cases, a CT scan of the larynx may be required to identify structural changes.
Methods of treating laryngitis
Treatment of laryngitis usually involves a combination of medication therapy and lifestyle change recommendations. It’s advised to rest the vocal cords, humidify the air, avoid irritants such as smoking, and avoid excessive strain on the vocal cords.
Treatment may also include anti-inflammatory medications, throat moisturizers, and regular throat rinsing. In the case of a bacterial infection, antibiotics may be required. Rarely, surgical intervention may be necessary in the presence of certain complications like polyps or tumors.
- Resting the vocal cords: Rest and limiting voice use can contribute to recovery.
- Avoiding irritants: Smoking, dust, polluted air, and other irritants can exacerbate the condition of laryngitis.
- Anti-inflammatory medications: Medications that reduce inflammation can help lessen swelling and discomfort in the throat.
- Moisturizing the throat: Using humidifiers or steam can help soothe dryness and irritation in the throat.
- Antibacterial therapy: In cases of bacterial laryngitis, a doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics to eliminate the pathogen.
Prevention measures for Laryngitis
Prevention of Laryngitis includes adherence to voice regimen, avoiding hypothermia, controlling humidity in the room, and preventing contact with irritating substances. Patients are also advised to refrain from smoking and consuming alcoholic beverages, as this may exacerbate throat irritation.
Other preventive measures include vaccination against influenza, timely treatment of upper respiratory infections, and avoiding vocal overload. Regular airing of the room, humidifying the air, healthy eating, and physical activity also contribute to strengthening the body and reducing the risk of Laryngitis.
- Compliance with vocal mode: it is important to avoid prolonged strain on the vocal cords and yelling, especially in noisy conditions.
- Avoiding overcooling: cold air can irritate the mucous membrane of the larynx, so it is important to dress appropriately for the weather.
- Control of humidity in the room: dry air can contribute to throat irritation, so it is recommended to use humidifiers.
- Avoiding contact with irritants: substances such as smoke, tobacco smoke, and chemical vapors can negatively affect the mucous membrane of the larynx.
- Vaccination against influenza: influenza can be one of the causes of laryngitis, so it is recommended to get vaccinated against flu with the vaccine.
Facts about Laryngitis
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FAQ
What are the main symptoms of Laryngitis?
The main symptoms of laryngitis are hoarseness, cough, difficulty or painful swallowing, the sensation of a lump in the throat, and changes in voice pitch.
What professions and risk groups are most susceptible to the development of laryngitis?
People working in fields that require increased strain on the vocal cords, such as teachers, vocalists, actors, call center agents, speakers, and singers, are at the highest risk of developing laryngitis due to constant tension in the larynx.
Can the consumption of certain types of food contribute to the development of Laryngitis?
There are certain products, such as spicy and hot dishes, alcohol, caffeine, and citrus fruits, that can irritate the mucous membrane of the larynx and contribute to the development of laryngitis in some people.
Can stress and emotional tension worsen the symptoms of laryngitis?
Yes, stress and emotional tension can worsen the symptoms of laryngitis. The level of stress can affect hormone levels, immune system adaptation, and the body’s ability to fight infections, which can lead to an increase in laryngitis symptoms.