Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (larynx) that can cause hoarseness or loss of voice. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
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Viral infections: The most common cause of acute laryngitis is a viral infection, such as a cold or flu.
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Overuse or misuse of the voice: Straining or overusing the voice by yelling, talking loudly, or singing for long periods of time can cause laryngitis.
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Irritants: Exposure to irritants such as smoke, pollution, or chemicals can cause laryngitis.
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Bacterial or fungal infections: Although rare, bacterial or fungal infections can cause laryngitis.
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Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Acid reflux from the stomach can irritate the larynx and cause laryngitis.
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Autoimmune disorders: Certain autoimmune disorders, such as granulomatosis with polyangiitis (Wegener’s disease) or pemphigoid/pemphigus, can cause laryngitis.
Symptoms of laryngitis can include hoarseness, difficulty speaking, sore throat, mild fever, irritating cough, and a constant need to clear your throat. In most cases, laryngitis symptoms last less than a couple of weeks and are caused by something minor, such as a viral infection. Persistent hoarseness can sometimes signal a more serious underlying medical condition.
