Index
What is Laryngitis?
Laryngitis is inflammation of the voice box (larynx), which contains the vocal cords. When these tissues become irritated or swollen, your voice may sound hoarse, strained, weak, or may disappear altogether.
It commonly develops after viral infections such as colds, but can also be triggered by heavy voice use, smoking, allergies, or acid reflux. Laryngitis affects people of all ages and can significantly impact daily activities, especially if your job requires speaking.
What Causes Laryngitis?
Infections
- Viral infections (most common) – e.g., colds, flu
- Bacterial infections (less common but possible)
Voice Strain
- Speaking loudly for long periods
- Singing
- Teachers, performers, coaches, call-centre work
Irritants & Lifestyle Factors
- Smoking or second-hand smoke
- Gastro-oesophageal reflux (GORD)
- Allergies
- Dry air, dust exposure
- Heavy alcohol use
Children
- Viral infections can cause swelling around the larynx
- May lead to croup (barking cough and noisy breathing)
What Are the Common Symptoms of Laryngitis?
- Hoarse, croaky, or weak voice
- Sudden loss of voice
- Sore or dry throat
- Dry, irritating cough
- Frequent throat clearing
- Mild fever
- Feeling of throat tightness or swelling
- Sensation of needing to strain to speak
How Is Laryngitis Diagnosed?
A GP will ask about:
- When symptoms started
- Any recent colds or infections
- Voice use (e.g., long presentations, singing)
- Smoking, alcohol, or reflux symptoms
During an online consultation, a GP can:
- Evaluate voice quality
- Identify likely causes
- Recommend home care
- Prescribe treatment for underlying issues (e.g., reflux, allergies)
You may need an in-person review if:
- Symptoms last longer than 3 weeks
- You have significant pain, swallowing difficulty, or breathing concerns
- You experience repeated episodes
Possible tests include:
- Throat swab
- Blood tests
- ENT review with laryngoscopy (camera to view the vocal cords)
How Long Does Laryngitis Last?
- Acute laryngitis: usually clears within 3–14 days
- Chronic laryngitis: lasts over 3 weeks, often linked to smoking, reflux, or long-term irritants
Recovery varies depending on:
- Frequency of voice use
- Smoking or alcohol habits
- Reflux management
- Hydration and rest
How to Feel Better and Recover Quickly
Self-Care at Home
- Rest your voice completely when possible
- Avoid whispering (this strains the voice more)
- Drink plenty of warm fluids
- Use steam inhalation or a humidifier
- Avoid smoking, vaping, or smoky environments
- Take paracetamol or ibuprofen for discomfort
- Warm drinks with honey (not for under 1 year)
Treatment from a GP
- Medication for acid reflux if suspected
- Advice on vocal hygiene and voice rest
- Steroids for severe inflammation (rare)
- Antibiotics only if a bacterial infection is likely
When Referral Is Needed
- Hoarseness lasting more than 3 weeks
- Recurrent laryngitis
- Suspicion of vocal cord nodules, polyps, or other abnormalities
- Persistent throat pain or difficulty swallowing
When to Seek Urgent Medical Help
Go to A&E or call 999 if you experience:
- Difficulty breathing
- Noisy breathing (stridor)
- Severe or rapidly worsening throat pain
- Drooling or inability to swallow
- High fever with significant unwell appearance
- Worsening croup symptoms in children
Use urgent care (not online GP) if:
- Hoarseness lasts longer than 3 weeks
- Symptoms keep recurring
- You cannot maintain hydration
- You have persistent fever or swelling
How Dr.Online UK Can Help
- Same-day online GP appointments
- Assessment of symptoms and causes
- Private prescriptions where appropriate
- Fit notes for work
- Referral letters to ENT specialists
Guidance on vocal rest and recovery strategies
