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Laryngitis Larynx Hoarseness Voice loss Pain when talking Sore throat Scratchy or burning sensation low in the throat Difficulty swallowing Pain when swallowing Wheezing Vocal spasms when trying to talk Chronic unproductive cough or throat clearing Viral or bacterial respiratory infection Gastroesophageal reflux disease Smoking or other respiratory irritants Vocal polyps Vocal nodules Allergies

Overview

What Is Laryngitis?

Laryngitis refers to any inflammation or irritation of the larynx, or voice box, causing a raspy, hoarse voice and throat pain, often when talking or swallowing.

Inflammation brings engorgement of the blood vessels and laryngeal lining that is usually temporary and not serious. If the vocal cords (the two bands of smooth muscle tissue) are injured by overuse during the inflammatory process, however, there can be long-term damage.

Likewise, if hoarseness and inflammation lasts more than a two to three weeks, see your physician. It may indicate that you have a more serious medical condition.