Sickness - Losing voice

Whenever we utter something, our larynx, commonly known as voice box activates. Namely, it contains our vocal cords which vibrate, producing the sounds we call our voice. Vocal cords are muscles which are V-shaped and held together, being relaxed when we breathe and tense when we speak, sing, yell etc., moving close together. The sounds we produce get emitted out of our mouth, resulting in verbal utterance.

Problems with Voice

Sometimes, usually due to overstraining, our vocal cords become inflamed and swollen. Then, they are incapable of functioning properly, leading to laryngitis, a condition which commonly results in hoarseness.

Reasons behind Laryngitis

Children usually suffer from laryngitis once they yell or scream too much. Older people may do the same and face equal consequences. Usually, teachers and professional singers tend to strain their vocal cords excessively, leading to laryngitis.

Alternatively, believe it or not, our stomach can trigger laryngitis, once stomach acid gets inside the larynx, irritating the vocal cords. Smoking or drinking alcohol excessively are both actions which can contribute to the deterioration of your voice too.

On the other hand, problems with your voice may stem from infections affecting the vocal cords, along with other parts of your body. This usually happens if we have flu or suffer from similar illnesses. Whenever we cough often, our voice sounds strange as well, due to the above mentioned factors.

Additionally, if you irritate your vocal cords for a long time, nodules may develop on your vocal cords.These are small bumps which lead to voice problems too.

Signs of Laryngitis

The main sign of this condition is voice which can be best described as hoarse or raspy. In some cases of laryngitis, your voice may be completely gone, manifesting through just an occasional squeak once you strain your vocal cords. Tickling and itching may be felt in the larynx. Fortunately, all symptoms are likely to disappear after a couple of days, bringing you your precious voice back. Yet, if the symptoms remain prevalent, you are advised to seek medical attention.

Treatment for Laryngitis

Your doctor is likely to check your vocal changes and diagnose the condition based on some other symptoms you are showing. However, if something more peculiar is behind your loss of voice, you might have to be directed to a ENT specialist who may perform various tests and look inside your voice box, searching for the source of this health issue.

Finally, viral causes of this condition are treated by resting and drinking plenty of fluids. GERD or other causes of acid reflux are treated with medication while keeping your voice safe from overstraining may prevent other forms of laryngitis.