Therapy
The therapy of laryngitis depends primarily on the underlying cause. First of all, of course, basic diseases must be treated. If, for example, one suffers from reflux and this is appropriately treated with proton pump inhibitors (e.g.B.
Omeprazol) is treated, the laryngitis often recedes as part of this therapy. In addition, any harmful substances (tobacco) and external conditions that are bad for the larynx (dry, dusty air) should be avoided as far as possible, whether they are the cause of the inflammation or not. The same applies to irritating substances such as alcohol or hot spices.
The focus is also on protecting the voice. Those affected should therefore speak as little as possible and above all avoid whispering, as this is particularly harmful due to the great tension that the vocal chords have to build up for this. The success of the healing process depends to a large extent on these simple rules of behavior, which the patient should follow consistently to prevent the transition to chronic inflammation.
In the case of acute laryngitis, no other specific measures are usually necessary. As a rule, one tries to alleviate the symptoms by giving the affected persons cold, moist air and possibly instructing them to inhale with essential oils. These inhalations can also be carried out with anti-inflammatory substances such as hydrocortisone, which also has a decongestant effect.
For some people affected, the use of expectorants also proves to be helpful. An exception is epiglottitis caused by the bacterium Haemophilus influenzae B, as this requires antibiotic therapy. Due to the resulting shortness of breath, intubation and respiration may also be necessary.
Chronic laryngitis may rarely require surgery if the disease does not heal, for example surgical correction of a defective nasal septum, which can improve breathing. In some cases, voice therapy (speech therapy) is also useful, in which “correct” speech is learned, relieving the vocal folds as much as possible. In the foreground of a laryngitis is the protection of the voice and a ban on smoking.
Temporary complete silence of the voice is even preferable, whereby whispering should be strictly avoided. The enjoyment of warm drinks and the use of hot compresses is perceived as pleasant by those affected. In addition, steam inhalations with the addition of chamomile or sage can also have a soothing effect on pain, tickling and dryness.
It should be noted that gargling is ineffective. In the case of swollen, i.e. edematous vocal folds, inhalation of cortisone (e.g. Pulmicort-Spray®) can also have a supportive effect.
Symptomatically, laryngitis can be treated with drugs that have the same mode of action as local anesthetics and relieve the pain in the throat and pharynx by anesthesia. These drugs include Dorithricin ® or Lemocin ®. If the inflammation of the larynx is purulent, anitseptic drugs must also be used, since a bacterial infection is likely in these cases.
The antiseptic Hexetidine (Hexoral®Spray) in the form of a dosage spray as well as systemic antibiotics from the group of tetracyclines such as Supracycline can be used. A pronounced irritation of the throat can be treated symptomatically with a cough blocker if necessary. Active ingredients from the group of expectorants with expectorant and mucolytic properties, such as bromhexine, can also be used to treat coughs.
In the case of laryngitis, homeopathic treatment is possible if the symptoms are not severe. It should be noted, however, that in the case of serious complaints, a medical clarification is always indicated. A doctor should also be consulted for children because of the danger of epiglottitis or pseudocroup.
In addition to the homeopathic treatment described in the following, additional measures such as resting the voice and nicotine withdrawal speed up the healing process. Aconit D30 can be administered at the beginning of the treatment. It is advisable to take 3 x 5 globules at intervals of 2 hours.
If a laryngectoscopy shows bright red vocal cords, Belladonna D30, 3 x 5 globules every 12 hours, is the treatment of choice. If the vocal cords are rather pale and swollen, Apis D6, 3 x 5 globules daily is used. For people who work in speaking professions, such as teachers or singers, Echinacea Mouth Spray from WALA can also be prescribed.
In the case of prolonged laryngitis, Phosphorus D12 (2 x 5 globules per day) can be used for dominant evening hoarseness and Causticum D6 (3 x 5 globules per day) for more morning hoarseness.In the case of chronic laryngitis, in addition to physical treatment, the administration of sulfur D6, 3 x 5 globules daily is considered sensible. In the case of predominant hoarseness in the evening, phosphorus D12 (2 x 5 globules per day) can also be used for chronic laryngitis and causticum D6 (3 x 5 globules per day) for more morning hoarseness. Here too treatment with Echinacea Mouth Spray from WALA can provide relief.
However, chronic laryngitis is usually accompanied by a long and difficult treatment. If there is no response to homeopathic therapy a doctor should be consulted.
