Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) generally associated with hoarseness or loss of voice.

The voice box (larynx) is located at the top of the airway to the lungs, also called the trachea. The larynx contains the vocal cords. When the vocal cords become inflamed or infected, they swell. This can cause hoarseness, and may sometimes block the airway.

The most common form of laryngitis is an infection caused by a virus. It may also be caused by a bacterial infection or a common cold, bronchitis, flu, or pneumonia.

Laryngitis often occurs with an upper respiratory infection and will go away by itself. Common laryngitis is not normally associated with any breathing difficulty.

Several forms of laryngitis occur in children and can lead to dangerous or fatal respiratory blockage. These include croup and epiglottitis.

Other causes of laryngitis include allergies and injury to the area.

• Recent or current upper respiratory infection
• Hoarseness
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes or glands in the neck

Physical examination is usually all that is needed to find out if hoarseness is caused by a respiratory tract infection.

Patients, especially smokers, with lasting hoarseness will need to see an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat doctor) for tests of the throat and upper airway.