Your throat houses many structures such as tonsils, uvula, pharynx, larynx, etc. Any structure can undergo inflammation; the condition is known as laryngitis when the larynx is hit. This part of your throat is also known as the voice box and is supposed to help us speak. What if larynx infection and consequent laryngitis is contagious? Will we be able to talk at all? Let’s dig into some lesser-known facts about this condition.
Laryngitis
This condition is inflammation of your voice box – larynx. It contains a connection cord that joins the throat to the windpipe. But what causes laryngitis? These structures can go under inflammation due to either strenuous overuse or infection.
These cords are folds of mucous membrane encapsulating the cartilage and muscle. Usually, there is no problem seen in the vocal cord opening and closure. This helps in the formation of sounds via their vibration and movement.
With laryngitis, the voice changes distorting the air responsible for making sounds via air passing over them. Your voice may become hoarse or completely unrecognizable in some severe cases.
Is Laryngitis Contagious?
The most crucial part is understanding that laryngitis is a symptom and not contagious on its own. However, if the issue results from a viral attack, then those germs are spreadable.
But how would you know if it’s them attacking? Well, if your laryngitis comes with a fever, then it’s most likely contagious. The bacteria or virus can spread through close contact via droplets.
How Long Does A Laryngitis Infection Last?
Infection of the larynx has two extended braches that help in its classification:
1. Acute – short term
2. Chronic – long-lasting
Laryngitis does not last that long if it is acute. In this condition, the inflammation starts randomly due to a trigger and gets better within weeks or may take months. At the same time, chronic inflammation is a long ongoing condition that may last from a few months to years.
Usually, laryngitis is acute and not contagious. This is because mostly the hoarse voice results from temporary vocal cord strain. However, if the condition is persistent, you must get it checked by a healthcare professional.
Laryngitis – Causes
The causes of voice box inflammation tend to differ for each type; acute laryngitis causes are:
- Strenuous use of voice box (Larynx)
- Viral infections – contagious laryngitis
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Bacterial infections – contagious laryngitis
- Yeast infection
Chronic laryngitis:
- Chronic acid reflux – GERD
- Constant Irritant exposure
- Extra force on vocals while talking
- Recurrent sinus infections
- Active or passive smoking
- Yeast infections of Lower grade because of the frequent use of inhalers.
- Cancer or Vocal cord paralysis
- Modification of the vocal cord with age can cause sore throats and hoarseness in the voice.
Treatment for Contagious/ non-contagious Laryngitis
The type of treatment course depends majorly on the reason for its existence. In case of strenuous use and sore throat, gargle with salt water, drink tea for soothing inflammation, etc.
As far as infectious contagious laryngitis is concerned, here are the medications that will provide relief:
- Antibiotics – bacterial infection is treatable with the help of these. Your healthcare provider will be able to prescribe the right ones for you.
- Antifungals – when the infection’s root cause is candida, antifungals work best to get rid of the excess.
- Corticosteroids – are perfect for lowering inflammation and larynx swelling.
- Pain killers – OTC painkillers further aid in eliminating the root cause of inflammation and provide ease from discomfort.
Conclusion
Acute laryngitis is more common and not contagious in nature. Its main reason is the overuse of vocals. So, one way to avoid voice hoarseness is not to scream or yell often. Moreover, in case of an infection, try covering your mouth to not spread it. If you want to get your vocal cords examined, call dentists from Pearlshine Dental for help. Reach out to us at 281 477 7200.