chronic laryngitis

Last reviewed 01/2018

Defined as presence of laryngitis for more than three weeks (1).

  • is more common in males.
  • may be predisposed to by:
    • smoking
    • drinking spirits
    • voice overuse, e.g. by teachers, singers
    • chronic upper airway infection, e.g. sinusitis
    • tuberculosis (2)
    • constant exposure to irritants (2)
  • clinical features
    • it is characterised by a hoarseness of voice that tires easily
    • throat may be uncomfortable and the patient may have to clear his throat constantly
    • on examination the cords are thickened and pink and the surrounding mucosa is often red and dry.
  • treatment
    • is resting of the voice and steam inhalations, although this is often ineffective
    • underlying cause has to be removed (2)
    • usually heals itself in a week or two (2)

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