In laryngitis, the larynx (voice box) is inflamed, usually as a result of infection. The condition may be acute, lasting for only a few days, or chronic and persist for several months.
Acute laryngitis is usually caused by a viral infection, such as the common cold , but it may also occur after straining the voice. Chronic laryngitis is often caused by smoking or long-term overuse of the voice. Drinking alcohol may aggravate either type of laryngitis.
Symptoms of laryngitis may include hoarseness, gradual loss of the voice, and discomfort or pain in the throat, especially when speaking.
There is no specific treatment for this problem, other than resting the voice. Steam inhalations may help to relieve symptoms.
If hoarseness lasts for more than about 2 weeks, medical advice should be sought to exclude the possibility of the symptoms being due to laryngeal cancer.