If you’ve ever had laryngitis in Carlsbad, California, you
must have heard the old saying “cat got your tongue?” more times than you can
count. It’s always nice to see that people can find humor in your misery. The
good news is, this usually goes away in a few days. Once you can speak again
make to hit everyone with the best cliché you can think of (may I suggest “that
and a quarter will get you a cup of coffee”)?
Laryngitis is an inflammation of your larynx (voice box)
from overuse, irritation or infection. Your voice box contains your vocal
cords, which are two folds of mucous membrane covering muscle and cartilage.
Usually, your vocal cords will open and close smoothly, this creates sound.
Most of the cases of laryngitis in Carlsbad are acute,
meaning they temporary and improve quickly. This type of laryngitis is usually
caused by a viral infection, a bacterial infection or vocal strain. Chronic
laryngitis is more serious; it can last longer than three weeks and can lead to
vocal cord growths or injury. Chronic laryngitis is usually caused by a prolonged
exposure to an irritant, acid reflux, overuse of your voice and singing.
The symptoms of both types of laryngitis are the same:
hoarseness, a weak voice, sore throat and a dry throat and cough. Usually,
these symptoms can be managed with simple home remedies. Drinking plenty of
water and resting your voice are the best treatments.
If you experience trouble breathing, have increasing pain or
cough up blood, you should contact your ENT doctors in San Diego immediately. Your
doctor will perform laryngoscopy, which involves placing a thin tube with a
tiny camera on the end down your throat to see into your voice box. If your
doctor thinks they saw something troubling, a biopsy may need to be performed.
The best way to prevent laryngitis is to avoid smoking
cigarettes and drinking alcohol, drinking plenty of water will also help
prevent dryness.
