What is laryngitis?
Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box), causing hoarseness or loss of voice. Acute laryngitis is usually viral — same viruses that cause colds and flu. Most clears in 1–2 weeks.
Chronic hoarseness lasting >3 weeks needs evaluation — could be reflux, vocal cord nodules, polyps, or rarely, cancer.
Do I have laryngitis? Common signs
If most of these describe what you're experiencing, telehealth may be a good next step:
What causes it
Acute: viral URIs (most common), voice overuse (concerts, shouting), allergies, smoke. Chronic: GERD (reflux laryngitis), vocal cord nodules/polyps, smoking, chronic alcohol, occasionally tumors.
Is it contagious?
If viral cause, yes — through droplets like a cold.
Voice rest is the unsung hero — not whispering (which strains cords more than normal voice), but true rest.
Can it be treated online?
Acute laryngitis is well-suited to telehealth. Persistent hoarseness >3 weeks needs in-person ENT for laryngoscopy. Severe airway symptoms, difficulty breathing, or stridor need urgent care.
How laryngitis is treated
Mostly supportive. Voice rest is most important. Humidified air, hydration. NSAIDs for discomfort. Treat reflux if causing chronic hoarseness — PPIs. Steroids sometimes for severe acute laryngitis affecting professional voice users (singers, broadcasters).
Self-care while you wait
- Voice rest — including no whispering (paradoxically strains cords)
- Drink plenty of water
- Humidifier
- Avoid smoke and air irritants
- Avoid throat clearing
- Warm tea with honey
- Steam inhalation
- Manage reflux
How long does it last?
Acute: 1–2 weeks. Chronic: depends on cause.
Frequently asked questions
Should I whisper to save my voice?
No — whispering actually strains vocal cords more than soft normal speech. True rest is best.
Will steroids help?
Sometimes for severe acute cases, especially for professional voice users with a critical performance. Not first-line for typical laryngitis.
How long until I can sing/perform?
Voice usually returns in 7–10 days. Resume voice activity gradually.
Is whisper-only voice serious?
Acute and self-limited usually. Persistent voice loss needs ENT evaluation.
Will smoking make it worse?
Yes — and chronic smokers have higher risk of vocal cord cancer. Quit.
