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Laryngitis



Throat anatomy
Throat anatomy


Laryngitis

Treatment:

Because most common laryngitis is caused by a virus, treatment with antibiotics may not help. Your health care provider will make this decision.

Voice rest helps byreducing the inflammation of the vocal cords. A humidifier maysoothe the scratchy feeling that comes with laryngitis. Decongestants and pain killers may relieve symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, if present.


Expectations (prognosis):


Full recovery is expected in laryngitis that is not caused by a serious condition.


Complications:

Rarely, severe respiratory distress may develop, which will require medical attention.


Calling your health care provider:

Call your health care provider if there is difficulty in breathing, swallowing, or if drooling is present in a small child who is not teething.

Call your health care provider if hoarseness is present in a child less than 3 months old.

Call your health care provider if hoarseness has lasted for more than 1 week in a child or 2 weeks in an adult.




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