The larynx is located in the throat right at the top of the airway and houses the vocal cords, which vibrate to produce sound so we can speak. When the vocal cords are swollen or irritated, it can lead to hoarseness, loss of voice, a dry cough, and other symptoms.
The management of laryngitis involves addressing the underlying cause – of which there are many. In this article, I go over various practices that can speed up healing, as well as some evidence-based natural remedies for soothing the vocal cords and addressing some of the potential causes.
Causes of Laryngitis
Laryngitis can develop due to several potential causes, some of which are infectious and some non-infectious.
Infectious Causes:
- Viral Infections (most common)
- Bacterial Infections
- Fungal Infections (rare)
Non-Infectious Causes:
- Vocal Strain due to yelling, singing, speaking loudly or just overuse.
- Allergies can irritate the larynx and cause inflammation.
- Exposure to smoke, pollution, or other irritants
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) – this can lead to chronic laryngitis
Symptoms of Laryngitis
The symptoms of laryngitis can vary depending on the underlying cause but typically include:
- Hoarseness of the voice
- Loss of Voice (in severe cases)
- Throat Pain when speaking or swallowing
- Dryness Throat
- Cough
- Difficulty Speaking or easily fatigued vocal cords
How To Speed Up Healing
While severe cases require medical attention, mild cases may be managed with home remedies. Here are some effective practices to use along with natural remedies to speed up recovery:
- Rest the voice by avoiding speaking, whispering, or shouting to give the vocal cords time to heal.
- Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, herbal teas, and broths, to keep the throat moist and hydrated.
- Use a humidifier or inhale steam to help soothe the vocal cords and reduce dryness.
- Gargle with warm salt water several times a day. This helps reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Stay away from smoke, fumes, and other environmental irritants that can exacerbate symptoms.
Natural Remedies:
The management of Laryngitis involves both the relief of symptoms as well as managing the underlying cause.
Licorice
Licorice root is an age-old remedy for inflamed vocal cords and sore throats. It also possess potent anti-viral properties and has been used historically for treats respiratory conditions such as SARS. In addition to that, Licorice root has also been found to improve acid reflux and gastric issues that can cause reflux such as functional dyspepsia (see study).
It is important to note that large quantities of Licorice root has been associated with an increase in blood pressure. This is due to a compound found in licorice known as glycyrrhizin. There are Licorice root products that have this compound removed. They are referred to as deglycyrrhizinated licorice (or DGL).
Zinc
Zinc is well-known for its anti-viral and immune-boosting properties. Its been studied for infections that can cause laryngitis and/or hoarseness such as the common cold. Zinc lozenges in particular have been found to improve hoarseness, sore throats, and coughs (see study). Keep in mind that when taking Zinc, it is also important to get Copper as Zinc supplementation can result in the depletion of it. This can be acquired from foods such as shellfish or dark chocolate. It can also be supplemented.
Honey
Honey is a potent anti-bacterial, anti-inflammatory, and mucolytic. It is a popular remedy among singers for soothing the vocal cords and speeding up recovery time. Honey has demonstrated potent anti-bacterial properties in experimental research and is considered by some to be a natural anti-biotic. The most popular type of honey used to fight off infections is Manuka honey. In clinical trials, Honey has been found to improve the symptoms of upper respiratory tract infections – a common cause of laryngitis (see study)
When to See a Doctor
While home remedies can certainly help with mild cases, one should seek medical attention if there is:
- Severe pain or difficulty in breathing
- A high fever
- Blood in your saliva or mucus
- Difficulty swallowing
- Symptoms lasting for more than two weeks
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(Always use medicinal herbs under the supervision of a doctor)
For more information contact me at doctornishal@gmail.com
by Dr. Nishal R.
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