Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) due to overuse, irritation or any infection. The vocal cords are situated inside the larynx covering muscles and cartilage. Generally, vocal cords open and close smoothly, producing sounds through the movement and vibration. In a person suffering from laryngitis swelling and irritation leads to the distortion of the sounds formed and the voice becomes hoarse. In most of the cases, it is an acute condition triggered by a short term viral infection or voice strain, however continuous hoarseness can be a cause of severe medical condition.
Also Read: Sore Throat: Know The Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment
Some of the common signs and symptoms include:
Difficulty while eating food
Persistent cough
Hoarse voice
A sensation of a lump in the throat
An urge to clear the throat often
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Prevention
Some of the preventive measures to follow to aver the risk of laryngitis include:
Quit smoking and also avoid passive smoking, as the harmful nicotine dries your throat and irritates the vocal cords.
Restrict the intake of alcohol and caffeinated beverages.
Drink plenty of warm fluids to keep the throat moist and clear the mucus out.
Avoid eating deep-fried and spicy foods.
Include foods rich in vitamins A, C and E to trigger the immune system and to keep mucous membrane lining the throat healthy.
Avoid clearing the throat very often, as this may cause an abnormal vibration of vocal cords and increase the inflammation.
Wash your hand regularly and stay away from infected people to avoid chances of getting any infections.
Natural Home Remedies To Heal Laryngitis
When suffering from laryngitis your vocal cords are inflamed and swollen and need time to cure. The best possible way to heal the irritated vocal cord is to give ample rest and refrain from a lot of talking or shouting. Laryngitis usually settles on its own, however, try some of these home remedies to get your voice back to normal.
Also Read:5 Home Remedies To Soothe Sore Throat And Cough
Gargle With Salt Water
Gargling with warm salt water is a time tested natural remedy to heal irritated and sore throat. Add half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of warm water and stir until salt dissolves. Drink a mouthful of warm saltwater and gargle it all over the throat and spit it out. The antibacterial property of saltwater kills the harmful bacteria, soothe an irritated throat and lower the pain.
Herbal Teas
Several studies have disclosed that herbal teas like chamomile with the goodness of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties bolsters the immune system and also helps to heal the inflamed vocal cords.
Also Read: Herbal Teas That Boost Immunity
Honey
The natural antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of honey help to lessen the mucus secretions and heal a sore throat. Drinking a cup of warm water with a teaspoon of honey may combat inflammation, reduce pain and also settle a cough.
Ginger
Ginger is a highly valued herb used since time immemorial to heal the inflamed mucus membrane of the larynx and other respiratory woes. Evidence has also revealed that the antibacterial properties of ginger can lessen inflammation. Sipping ginger tea or adding a few shredded pieces of ginger to hot water helps to alleviate a sore throat and pain.
Lozenges
Lozenges work amazingly well to moisten the dry, irritated throat, ease pain and settle a persistent cough. There are a whole lot of natural lozenges available in different flavours from peppermint, eucalyptus, honey orange and other herbal ones which may assist to suppress cough and soothe an irritated throat.
Stay Well Hydrated
Adequate hydration is very important; this helps keep the throat moist and allows the mucus to clear away. Drinking plenty of warm fluids like herbal teas, soups and warm water helps to maintain hydration and also prevents the throat from drying out to and averts the risk of contagious infections.
Self-care Methods
When the voice is healing, it is essential to follow certain precautionary measures that may help to relieve the symptoms and lessen strain, which include:
Rest Voice:
Avoid talking or singing too loudly or for too long. Unwanted stress to the vocal cords will lead to increased inflammation, and it may take a longer time to heal.
Avoid Whispering:
It may sound strange, but whispering puts more stress on the vocal cords than speaking normally.
Alcohol:
Steer clear of alcohol, as it has a dehydrating effect on the body that worsens the problem.
Decongestants:
Avoid using over-the-counter medications that contain decongestants, as they can dry out the throat and may increase irritation of the vocal cord.
Smoking:
Quit smoking, any kind of smoking, including e-cigarettes, can irritate the throat that resulting in coughing and delaying healing.
Breathe Moist Air:Use a humidifier to maintain the air throughout a home or office moist. Also, inhale steam from a bowl of hot water or a hot shower.
Stay Hydrated:
Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration.
Moisten Your Throat:
Try slurping on lozenges or gargling with salt water to keep the throat moist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Fastest Way To Cure Laryngitis?
The fastest way to recover from laryngitis is to rest your voice completely and keep your throat moist.
Drink plenty of warm fluids like herbal tea or warm water with honey.
Avoid whispering, as it strains the vocal cords more.
Use a humidifier or inhale steam to soothe the larynx.
Avoid irritants such as smoking, alcohol, and spicy foods.
If it’s caused by a bacterial infection (rare), a doctor may prescribe antibiotics. Most cases resolve within 7–10 days naturally.
What Is The Best Homemade Drink For Laryngitis?
A soothing homemade drink:
Boil 1 cup of water.
Add 1 tsp of grated ginger, simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Strain and stir in 1 tsp of honey and ½ tsp of lemon juice.
This helps reduce inflammation, soothe the throat, and ease coughing. You can drink it 2–3 times daily.
How To Treat Laryngitis In A Child?
Keep the child hydrated with warm fluids or soups.
Use a humidifier or let them breathe warm steam in the bathroom.
Encourage voice rest, no shouting or singing.
Avoid menthol or strong cough drops, which can irritate the throat.
Seek medical attention if the child has breathing difficulty, high fever, or symptoms last more than 10 days, as it might indicate croup or another infection.
Is Ginger Good For Laryngitis?
Yes. Ginger possesses anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that soothe the inflamed vocal cords and reduce throat irritation. Fresh ginger tea or sucking on a small piece of raw ginger can help relieve symptoms.
What Is The Best Herb For Laryngitis?
Several herbs are beneficial:
Licorice root soothes throat inflammation.
Marshmallow root coats and lubricates the throat.
Thyme has a potent antimicrobial action that helps clear mucus.
Sage has anti-inflammatory properties and is useful as a gargle.
Among these, licorice root tea is often considered the best herbal remedy for quick relief.
Can I Drink Milk If I Have Laryngitis?
It’s best to limit milk and dairy products. They can increase mucus production, making your throat feel more congested. Opt for warm herbal teas.
(This article is reviewed by Kalyani Krishna, Chief Content Editor)
Author Profile:
M Sowmya Binu
With over 15 years of expertise and a Postgraduate degree in Nutrition, M Sowmya Binu is a seasoned professional in the field of nutrition. Specialising in tailoring personalised diet plans, she underscores the significance of a balanced approach to health, emphasising the integration of medication with dietary intake for holistic wellness. Passionate about equipping individuals with knowledge to make informed decisions, Sowmya adeptly develops insightful content encompassing various topics, including food, nutrition, supplements, and overall health.
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