If you’ve ever had laryngitis in Carlsbad, California, you must have heard the old saying “cat got your tongue?” more times than you can count. It’s always nice to see that people can find humor in your misery.
What is Laryngitis?
Laryngitis is an inflammation of your larynx (voice box) from overuse, irritation or infection. Your voice box contains your vocal cords, which are two folds of mucous membrane covering muscle and cartilage. Usually, your vocal cords will open and close smoothly. This creates sound.
Most of the cases of laryngitis in Carlsbad are acute, meaning they are temporary and improve quickly. This type of laryngitis is usually caused by:
- A viral infection
- A bacterial infection
- Vocal strain
Chronic laryngitis is more serious; it can last longer than three weeks and can lead to vocal cord growths or injury. Chronic laryngitis is usually caused by a prolonged exposure to an irritant, acid reflux, overuse of your voice or singing.
The symptoms of both types of laryngitis are the same:
- Hoarseness
- Weak voice
- Sore throat
- Dry throat
- Cough
How is Laryngitis Treated?
Usually, these symptoms can be managed with simple home remedies. Your Carlsbad doctor recommends drinking plenty of water and resting your voice.
The best way to prevent laryngitis is to avoid smoking cigarettes and drinking alcohol.
If you experience trouble breathing, have increasing pain or cough up blood, you should contact your Carlsbad doctor immediately. Your doctor will perform laryngoscopy, which involves placing a thin tube with a tiny camera on the end down your throat to see into your voice box. If your doctor thinks they saw something troubling, a biopsy may need to be performed.