How to Cure Laryngitis
In case you are wondering "what is laryngitis", rest assured that you are not alone. Many people are unaware of what this condition really is, its causes, its symptoms as well as appropriate treatment for the same. However, when most people hear about this affliction or are diagnosed with it, they generally ask "is laryngitis contagious?"
What is Laryngitis and is it Contagious?
Laryngitis can be described as a very common problem, which can turn your voice hoarse, or can also even cause you to lose your voice. This condition occurs if there is a swelling in your voice box, also known as the larynx. Due to the swelling, your voice can change drastically, sounding hoarse. Fortunately, this condition is not really serious and is usually a temporary one. However, there have been instances, where people have suffered from chronic laryngitis, but this is more common among those who smoke or are exposed to allergens, pollutants and smog. In some cases, it could also be contagious, depending on the factors that have led to the inflammation.
What is Laryngitis Caused By?
Laryngitis is usually a result of an infection that affects the upper respiratory system. Hence, the virus that leads to a common cold could also cause you to suffer from laryngitis. However, there are other factors too that can cause the larynx to swell, such as straining your voice, yelling or screaming; in such cases, the hoarseness lasts of a shorter period of time though.
Laryngitis is characterized by changes or hoarseness in the voice. However, there are a few other typical symptoms that are also associated with this condition. Given below are some of the other common laryngitis symptoms that may be seen in people:
- Severe pain in the throat and an ache around the larynx
- Itching sensation in the throat or a tickling feeling mainly at the back of the throat
- Need to clear the throat over and over
- Fatigue and feeling tired constantly
- Loss of voice in some cases
Some of the uncommon laryngitis symptoms are cough, phlegm and difficulty in swallowing. Laryngitis symptoms in babies may be different and in some cases, more severe.
There are quite a few over the counter and prescription medicines that can help you recover from laryngitis. However, it is quite common for most people to try to alleviate laryngitis symptoms at home, using natural and simple remedies. This is because laryngitis home remedies are believed to have fewer side effects as compared to medicines. Given below are some of the most commonly used laryngitis home remedies:
- Gargle with some warm saltwater at least 5 or 6 times a day. However, make sure that the solution is not too salty. Alternately, gargling with a solution made from equal parts of water and vinegar is also quite helpful
- Ginger is an excellent remedy for soothing the inflammation in the larynx. Hence, you could either suck on some candied ginger, or you could prepare some fresh ginger tea and consume it a couple of times during the day. One of the most common laryngitis home remedies is honey, which can also be added to the tea.
- Adding a humidifier to the environment reduces the dryness in the throat, thereby soothing it and helping it to heal faster
There is a lot of information on laryngitis symptoms and treatment easily available on the internet. However, self-treatment should be strictly avoided and it is best for you to consult a doctor before trying out any of the laryngitis home remedies mentioned above. In case any of these remedies do not bring about relief within a day or two, then you may need to consult a doctor and seek professional help for laryngitis.
answered by G M