Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, part of the throat, characterized by loss of voice and irritation of the vocal cords. This condition has many causes, including smoking, yelling, severe gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), and various allergies. However, the most common cause is an infection, which could be viral or bacterial. The inflammation can also be caused by some serious medical conditions, such as tonsillitis, bronchitis, or even pneumonia. If caused by an infection, the disease that causes laryngitis can be contagious.
An upper respiratory infection, such as a cold or the flu, can often cause laryngitis. A viral case cannot be treated with antibiotics, which means a medical professional will prescribe rest, steam inhalations, and plenty of fluids. This condition is usually not contagious and often clears up within a couple of days. Using a cool-mist humidifier in the room and avoiding smoking can also help. Because there are not many medications available to treat this inflammation, the best course of action is to treat the symptoms while waiting for the problem to go away on its own.
The presence of a fever usually indicates that the inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection. Bacterial laryngitis is contagious, and is usually caught from another person who is already sick. It can spread up to a day or two after the last symptom has disappeared, and if the infection is severe, this can take several weeks. In addition to a high fever, other symptoms that indicate the presence of bacterial laryngitis are severe pain rather than a simple sore throat, difficulty swallowing, a colored nasal discharge, and pain spreading to the ears. This condition is especially serious in a child, as it can hide a serious condition called epiglottitis, where the airways close almost completely.
People who think they may have a bacterial throat infection should stay home and away from other people. In most cases, a medical professional will prescribe a course of antibiotics and recommend treating symptoms at home with voice rest and warm beverages. Until the infection has cleared up, it is best to minimize contact with others, as the infection can be spread without direct contact, through coughing. Most cases resolve in less than a week, after which it is safe to return to a normal routine.