Vocal damage may make its debut as a frequent clearing of the throat, frequent hoarseness in the voice, or an out of the ordinary pitch that may last from several hours up to several days. However, if left untreated, these menial symptoms may augment into full fledged laryngitis. If these symptoms fit what you have been recently experiencing, please make an appointment with your local Otolaryngologist.
Pertinent Links
- NYU Otolaryngology Medical Center is one of the most prestigious Otolaryngology centers in the country.
- An in depth look to vocal disorders with photos of each condition to further inform the general public on voice disorders.
Acute Laryngitis
The most common form of Laryngitis is Acute Laryngitis. Acute Laryngitis is often caused by viral infections, such as the common cold and influenza. However, another common cause of Acute Laryngitis is overuse and strain of the vocal cords. Strain may be brought upon the voice by cheering at a show or game. The first signs of Acute Laryngitis are hoarseness of the voice and throat sensitivity after recent recovery from a viral infection. To treat Acute Laryngitis get plenty of sleep, go on voice rest, and drink lots of clear fluids such as water and tea.
Chronic laryngitis
Chronic Laryngitis is often brought upon by excessive cigarette smoking, voice strain, and an increased consumption of Ethanol, which is found in alcoholic beverages. The demographic that seems to suffer the most from Chronic Laryngitis seems to be men in their mid to late 60s. Symptoms that are present in the early manifestation stages of Chronic Laryngitis are: Chronic Coughing, Dry Throat, Difficulty Breathing, Pain When Swallowing, Fever, and a Swollen Larynx. The medications that are prescribed to treat Chronic Laryngitis are Prilosec and Zantac. Voice rest is also advised as a common treatment for Chronic Laryngitis. However, in more severe cases, surgical procedures may be necessary.
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LRD)
Laryngopharyngeal Reflux Disease (LRD) is often caused by excessive cigarette smoking, excessive consumption of alcoholic beverages, consumption of spicy foods, and being overweight. The symptoms that are present before LRD emerges are: Reappearance of Swallowed Food, Heart Burn, Chronic Throat Irritation, Difficulty Swallowing, Hoarseness of Voice, and an Itchy or Clogged Sensation in Throat. Since LRD is often activated due to food intake, the most common treatment is diet modification. These diet modifications aim to cut out foods such as Buffalo wings, Milk Shakes, French Fries, Mashed Potatoes, Coffee, and Orange Juice. It is also advised that smoking and alcohol consumption be limited or eliminated all together.
Voice Misuse and overuse
Voice Misuse and overuse is caused by voice strain, excessive cigarette smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. However, the most common cause is indeed voice strain. Voice Misuse and Overuse is the catalyst to Acute Laryngitis and Chronic Laryngitis. To treat Voice Misuse and Overuse get some physical and vocal rest, remain hydrated, and purchase over the counter throat soothing medications. Like Acute and Chronic Laryngitis, singers are the most common sufferers of Voice Misuse and Overuse.