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You are here : Healthopedia.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Laryngitis
      Category : Health Centers > Throat Disorders

Laryngitis

Alternate Names : Inflammation of the Larynx

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring | Pictures and Images | Attribution


Laryngitis is a general term for inflammation of the voice box, or larynx. It can be caused by many different conditions. The larynx is a tube-like structure that connects the back of the throat to the windpipes. It contains the vocal cords, which help us to talk.

What is going on in the body?

The larynx and vocal cords become inflamed, reducing their ability to function, limiting the ability to talk, and possibly causing pain.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

The many causes of laryngitis include:

  • infection
  • overuse of the voice, such as doing a lot of yelling and screaming
  • inhalation of smoke or fumes
  • excess alcohol consumption
  • damage to the nerves that supply the vocal cords, known as laryngeal nerve damage
  • cancer
  • trauma or injury to the neck or vocal cords, including from smoking
  • severe gastroesophageal reflux or GERD

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    Laryngitis: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Adam Brochert, MD
    Reviewer: Gail Hendrickson, RN, BS
    Date Reviewed: 07/27/01









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    Page Last Updated: 30th May, 2006