Laryngitis
| Laryngitis | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Endoscopic image of an inflamed larynx caused by acid reflux | |
| Pronunciation |
|
| Specialty | Otorhinolaryngology |
| Symptoms | Hoarse voice, aphonia fever, pain |
| Duration | Usually a little more than 2 weeks |
| Causes | Viral, trauma, bacterial |
| Diagnostic method | Based on symptoms, examination via laryngoscopy if concerns |
| Differential diagnosis | Epiglottitis, laryngeal cancer, croup |
| Treatment | Voice rest, fluids |
| Frequency | Common |
Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box). The primary symptom is loss of some vocal function, ranging from hoarse voice to no voice at all. Laryngitis can be caused by overuse of the vocal chords, or by other inflammation, trauma, or infection. The accompanying symptoms depend on the primary cause. Typically, these last under 2 weeks.