Diagnosis
First the patient is asked in detail about his larynx pain when coughing. Here, accompanying symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing or breathing difficulties are of particular interest. Furthermore, the temporal course or the exact occurrence of the complaints can be of importance.
For example, pain and coughing after smoking can indicate chronic laryngitis. But also e.g. workplaces with a high fine dust load can be a cause for the complaints. This is followed by a physical examination.
For this, the physician first examines and palpates the outer shape of the larynx. This step provides important information, especially if there are questions regarding a possible tumor disease. Basically, the following applies: Suddenly occurring hoarseness, which lasts for several weeks, must be clarified by a doctor.In order to assess the larynx more precisely, a so-called “laryngoscopy” (indirect laryngoscopy) is recommended: For this, the patient sits upright, with a wide open mouth and tongue stretched out opposite the examiner.
While the doctor fixes the tongue with two small gauze bandages, he carefully inserts the laryngoscope into the mouth with the other hand. Through clever reflection, the larynx can now be examined in the small mirror without actually advancing it that far. Normally the examination is merely unpleasant, but not painful. Through the small image in the mirror, possible inflammations or swellings, mobility of the vocal chords and much more can be assessed. In special cases, other examination methods, such as direct laryngoscopy, can be performed.
Therapy
Basically, the therapy of laryngeal pain when coughing depends on the disease that causes it. In addition to drug therapy, such as antibiotics for bacterial laryngitis, simple measures can positively influence the healing process: In the case of severe, threatening swelling of the larynx, cortisone preparations may be prescribed to ease it.
- Voice protection
- Abstaining from smoking
- Inhalations with sage or steam
- Warm neck wraps
- Do not inhale cold or dry air
