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Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx caused by an infection, or by
over-use of the voice, or by irritation.
What to look for
hoarseness and loss of
voice.
pain when speaking.
raw feeling in the
throat.
a constant need to clear
the throat.
flu
or a cold
The first indication that
you have laryngitis is that you lose your voice.
Causes
Anything that makes your
vocal cords swell can result in laryngitis. Viruses and bacteria are frequently
responsible.
Allergies and exposure to certain harsh chemicals
or toxins can also cause the vocal cords to swell. As well as overuse. Tumours or growths
can also cause this, however it is only in rare case.
Traditional Treatment
Viral laryngitis usually
goes away by itself in a few days without any treatment except rest for the voice.
However, if your physician
diagnoses a bacterial infection has set in, you'll most likely be given antibiotics. Be
sure to complete the entire course.
For most allergies, doctors
usually prescribe antihistamines, which reduce swelling and inflammation.
No medication is necessary
if your laryngitis is caused by simple overuse; in that case, the best solution is to rest
your voice.
Alternative/Natural
Treatments
Your immune system will be
the object of treatment with alternative practices, in order to prevent this condition
occurring again. They will also attempt to relieve the discomfort you feel.
Herbal Therapies -
To
help restore the voice, try gargling with a tea made from red
sage,
bayberry or white oak bark.
Echinacea
(Echinacea
spp.) also helps the immune system To
help restore the voice, try gargling with a tea made from red
sage,
bayberry or white oak bark.
Echinacea (Echinacea
spp.) also helps the immune system
Aromatherapy -
Try
using the essential oil of
thyme to relieve the
symptoms. Use in vaporiser, inhalation or in a carrier oil via massage. (see our section on Aromatherapy for more
information).
Try
using the essential oil of
thyme to relieve the
symptoms. Use in vaporiser, inhalation or in a carrier oil via massage. (see our section on Aromatherapy for more
information).
Dietary
Considerations
Drinking plenty of filtered
water, eating lots of raw fruits and vegetables, and reducing your intake of refined
carbohydrates may help speed your recovery from laryngitis. To boost your immune system,
supplement your diet with
vitamin C, garlic tablets and Echinacea.
Personal Care
Do not speak at all -
rest your voice totally.
Drink plenty of liquids,
such as water or tea mixed with a little honey or lemon.
Inhale steam from a pot
of boiling water.
Prevention
Try not to overuse your
voice - give it lots of rest. Do not smoke or locate yourself next to smokers.
When to seek further
professional advice
laryngitis lasts more
than a week
you develop laryngitis
after being exposed to environmental toxins
a child's hoarseness
turns into a sharp, barking cough
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