Laryingitis

LARYNGITIS The larynx, also known as the voice box, lies between the pharynx and the trachea. It has nine layers of cartilage and it contains two folds, called vocal cords. The opening between the vocal cords is called the glottis and as air leaves the lungs, the vocal cords vibrate and produce sound. The tongue and lips then act on the sound to produce speech. When the larynx and the vocal cords become inflamed or irritated, the condition is called Laryngitis. The swelling in the vocal cords causes distortion of the sounds made by air passing over them. Laryngitis frequently occurs in conjunction with other respiratory infections. It mainly just affects the Larynx (voice box) and the vocal cords. Laryngitis can be acute meaning it is short-term. In most cases, laryngitis comes on very quickly and lasts no more than two weeks. Laryngitis can also be chronic meaning it lasts for more than two weeks. The main symptom of Laryngitis is hoarseness of the voice. Some people’s voices get really weak and some people lose their voice completely. Other symptoms of Laryngitis are a tickling sensation and rawness of the throat, a sore or dry throat, a dry cough and dysphagia which means difficult swallowing. Laryngitis can be caused by many different factors. Laryngitis can be caused by a cold or flu, vocal strains which are due to yelling or overusing the voice, bacterial or viral infections, inhaled irritants such as chemical fumes, allergens or smoke, acid reflux, chronic sinusitis, laryngeal cancer, excessive alcohol use or by smoking. If the Laryngitis is caused by a viral or bacterial infection, there is a chance that the certain virus or bacteria can be contagious. However, if the laryngitis is caused by something like overuse of the voice or laryngeal cancer, then it is not contagious. Anyone at any age can get laryngitis; there is not a specific age group associated with it.