Laryngitis refers to inflammation of the vocal cords, and is a common source of hoarseness. Causes of laryngitis include:

• Excessive use of the voice
• Infections or viruses
• Inhaled irritants
• Laryngopharyngeal reflux

Laryngitis Treatment

Many cases of laryngitis are caused by a virus and will clear up on their own in about a week. If symptoms last longer than two or three weeks, then more chronic causes of irritation may be to blame. Hoarseness lasting longer than two or three weeks may also be indicative of a more serious condition.

In cases of acute inflammation where quick vocal recovery is critically important, steroids can manage or minimize the symptoms by suppressing vocal cord inflammation. For chronic laryngitis, however, the best treatment is to identify and treat the underlying cause of the inflammation.

Make an Appointment

Contact the Johns Hopkins Voice Center by calling 443-997-6467 (443-997-OHNS).