What to do in case of laryngitis?

Introduction

Laryngeal inflammation (medically known as laryngitis) is an inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa, which is usually caused by viruses. However, other pathogens as well as overloading of the voice and cigarette smoke are also possible. The leading symptoms of a laryngitis are usually hoarseness up to loss of voice and coughing.

Scratching in the throat is also typical. As a rule, laryngitis is harmless and heals within a few days, provided the sufferer takes it easy and uses simple household remedies to relieve the symptoms. In rare cases, however, swelling of the mucous membranes may cause breathing difficulties due to the anatomical proximity of the larynx to the airways, which requires urgent medical treatment.

What treatment options are available?

In most cases, laryngitis is harmless and does not require further treatment. However, various home remedies can be used to relieve the symptoms. The inhalation of smoke and very dry air should be avoided at all costs in order not to irritate the strained mucous membranes even more.

Medical treatment is indicated if the symptoms do not improve over a longer period of time or if breathing difficulties occur. If a bacterial pathogen is responsible for the laryngitis, antibiotic therapy may be used. In cases of shortness of breath, treatment must usually take place in hospital so that intubation (artificial respiration via a breathing tube) can be performed if the breathing situation deteriorates further.

These patients are usually administered cortisone, which causes the mucous membranes to swell and allows the patients to breathe again. Such emergencies are fortunately rare, but any breathing difficulties in the case of laryngitis should be taken seriously and treated immediately by a doctor.

  • At first, as little speech as possible should be spoken so that the mucous membranes in the larynx and the vocal folds can recover.
  • Inhalations and humidifying the room air help to supply the mucous membranes with moisture. The inflammation then heals more easily and the scratching in the throat becomes more bearable.
  • You should also make sure that you drink enough. Water and herbal tea are particularly suitable.