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AllCare offers comprehensive care for laryngitis, ensuring patients get the necessary diagnosis and treatment without lengthy wait times. Our experienced laryngitis treatment specialists are well-versed in identifying and addressing laryngitis, making urgent care an excellent choice for those seeking prompt relief from their laryngitis symptoms.
Laryngitis is a condition where your voice box, or larynx, becomes inflamed, and your vocal cords become swollen. When working correctly, your vocal cords open and close smoothly, producing sound through vibration. However, when your vocal cords become swollen, the vibrations become distorted, leading to a weak or hoarse voice. Depending on the severity of your infection, you may have mild hoarseness or completely lose your voice. An infection, irritation, acid reflux, or even overuse of the vocal cords can be an underlying cause of your laryngitis.
Most laryngitis symptoms are temporary and last about two weeks. Common symptoms of laryngitis include:
At AllCare, we know that laryngitis can be an uncomfortable condition. Whether you’re experiencing mild laryngitis symptoms or more severe ones, we are committed to providing timely and compassionate care when you need it most. Our comprehensive care means you will find everything from accurate diagnoses to personalized treatment plans to help you find relief from your symptoms. Additionally, our laryngitis treatments are available without the need for an appointment.
While laryngitis itself is not contagious, if it results from a viral or bacterial infection, those infections can spread from person to person. It’s essential to practice good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently and avoiding close contact with others when you are sick, to prevent the spread of contagious illnesses. If you experience persistent laryngitis symptoms or have concerns, it’s best to consult a primary care physician on an urgent care facility for proper diagnosis and laryngitis treatment.
For immunocompromised patients, laryngitis might be caused by a fungal infection, most commonly candida albicans. In that case, we offer antifungal medications to relieve symptoms and eliminate the infection.
We provide prescription and over-the-counter medications, including throat lozenges, pain relievers, and anti-inflammatory drugs, to help alleviate the pain and discomfort associated with laryngitis.
If your laryngitis is caused by allergies, we may prescribe antihistamines to relieve your allergy symptoms.
Throat sprays and gargles can provide temporary relief from sore throat symptoms by soothing irritation and reducing inflammation in the throat.
A throat culture is a quick, painless test to check for bacterial infections. Results are available within 2 to 3 days.
Laryngitis can be caused by a number of different factors, the most common being a viral infection like the cold or flu. It may also stem from other reasons, including:
The duration of laryngitis largely depends on the body’s healing process and the condition of the vocal cords. Here’s why acute and chronic laryngitis lasts for different lengths of time:
Getting diagnosed and treated for laryngitis is as easy as scheduling an appointment at AllCare, but you can also see a doctor at our facilities on a walk-in visit if needed. Here are a few simple steps for getting treated for laryngitis:
During your visit, your doctor will begin by conducting a comprehensive physical examination to assess your overall health. This exam will typically include an assessment of your throat, neck, and possibly other areas relevant to your symptoms. To gain a more detailed view of your larynx, your doctor may perform a procedure known as laryngoscopy. This procedure involves using a laryngoscope, which is a small, flexible tube equipped with a light and camera. The laryngoscope allows the doctor to examine the back of your throat and the vocal cords directly, identifying any signs of swelling, redness, or lesions. This examination can help in diagnosing the specific cause of your laryngitis, whether it be viral or bacterial infection, irritants, or other underlying health conditions.
Yes, sleeping with your mouth open can contribute to laryngitis. Here’s how it happens:
To mitigate these risks, consider using a humidifier in your bedroom, staying well-hydrated, and practicing nasal breathing techniques if possible. If you regularly sleep with your mouth open, it might be beneficial to consult a healthcare provider to explore potential underlying issues, such as nasal congestion or sleep apnea.
There are two common types of laryngitis: acute and chronic. Acute laryngitis is often caused by a viral infection or temporary vocal strain. It usually resolves on its own and only lasts about three to seven days. Chronic laryngitis is a long-term condition that lasts more than three weeks. It can be caused by smoking, overuse of your voice, alcohol overindulgence, allergies, or autoimmune disorders. To treat chronic laryngitis, you need to address and treat the underlying cause.
To alleviate the discomfort of laryngitis, there are several effective at-home treatments you can try. First and foremost, resting your voice is crucial, as this allows your vocal cords to heal properly. Aim to minimize talking, and when you do speak, try to do so softly. Staying hydrated is also vital; drinking plenty of water helps keep your throat moist and can soothe irritation. Additionally, using a humidifier in your home can add moisture to the air, which is especially helpful in dry environments or during winter months when indoor air tends to be drier. This moisture can ease throat discomfort and help reduce inflammation.
Laryngitis can sometimes be mistaken for other conditions, as symptoms such as voice loss and hoarseness can overlap with various issues. Conditions like allergies, acid reflux, and vocal cord polyps can mimic laryngitis symptoms and lead to similar discomfort. To ensure an accurate diagnosis, it’s essential to consult with your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, take your medical history, and perform a physical examination. In some cases, additional tests may be needed to determine if laryngitis is the underlying cause of your voice loss and hoarseness or if another condition may be at play. A proper diagnosis is key to receiving appropriate treatment and managing your symptoms effectively.
At AllCare, we’re proud to deliver exceptional primary and urgent care to residents across Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., and Georgia. From bustling city centers to serene suburban neighborhoods, our clinics are strategically placed for your convenience and care. Experience top-tie laryngitis treatment in your community with AllCare, where your health is our priority.
Check out our blog to learn more from our team about the latest medical advancements, health tips, and primary care news.
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