Laryngitis is a common condition that many people may experience at some point in their lives, but it is often misunderstood. It can affect all people of any age. It involves inflammation of the larynx (voice box), which sits just above the trachea (windpipe). When working properly, the vocal cords open and close smoothly, producing sound through their vibrations as air passes from the lungs. But when the cords become swollen and irritated, it disrupts those vibrations which can cause hoarseness or voice loss.
The term laryngitis simply means an inflammation of the larynx, which though it is a part of the respiratory system, sitting atop the trachea, is a separate entity that may or may not involve the rest of the respiratory tract. When the larynx becomes inflamed, it can disrupt normal airflow and cause coughing, throat clearing, hoarseness, raspiness, loss of voice and sore throat. Often, laryngitis may be a symptom of a larger respiratory infection which extends to affect the bronchi or lungs. Certain viruses associated with laryngitis can also cause bronchitis or pneumonia. In this way, laryngitis can be connected to a wider irritation in the airways and lungs.
How Do You Get Laryngitis?
Laryngitis can be infectious or non-infectious. Typically, most cases of acute laryngitis resolve in 3-7 days and are caused by viral upper respiratory infection, like a cold or flu. Bacteria can also cause a similar infection, but the incidence is much lower. When this is the cause, the underlying infection may spread from person to person. This type of viral laryngitis can be transmitted through direct contact, respiratory droplets or contaminated surfaces. Non-infectious causes include vocal overuse or misuse, which can occur because of excess shouting, prolonged talking or singing. Exposure to cigarette smoke, chemical fumes, allergies, chronic sinusitis and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can also cause throat inflammation and irritation leading to chronic laryngitis, meaning the laryngitis is present for more than three weeks.
How Do You Get Your Voice Back?
In general, cases of laryngitis are self-resolving within a two-week period and can be resolved on their own. Because the problem is caused by inflammation of the vocal cords, the best way to treat the problem is to rest your voice. Avoid talking, shouting, or even whispering as much as possible to prevent further strain. Staying well hydrated helps keep the mucous membranes moist and reduces irritation. Using a humidifier or steamy shower to make air moist can help soothe itchiness and swelling. Lastly, it is important to avoid irritants like cigarette smoke, alcohol and caffeine which can cause further inflammation.
If symptoms persist, you should consult your healthcare provider about the root issue. If acid reflux is causing the inflammation, your healthcare provider may suggest dietary changes or medication that reduces stomach acid. If laryngitis is the result of vocal strain, a speech therapist or voice coach can teach techniques that prevent overuse and promote healthier vocal habits. In rare cases involving nodules or polyps, surgical removal may be necessary.
Does Laryngitis Cause Long-Term Lung Damage?
Though laryngitis affects the larynx not the lungs, long-term lung damage is a common concern for patients. The good news is that because laryngitis affects the vocal cords rather than the lungs, it usually resolves on its own without causing long-term complications for the lungs or your overall respiratory health. However, if laryngitis is involved as a byproduct of a larger infection that involves the rest of the respiratory system, such as bronchitis or pneumonia, those viruses can affect the lungs and do permanent damage if not treated correctly. Furthermore, individuals who already have a chronic lung disease like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are at higher risk of complications that involve the rest of the respiratory tree and can worsen their breathing symptoms.
Regardless of the cause, paying attention to vocal health and addressing underlying causes can help restore the voice and protect the entire respiratory system.
Blog last updated: November 24, 2025
