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CD-ROM Today (UK) (Spanish) 15
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02004.txt
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1994-01-17
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$Unique_ID{BRK02004}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Causes and Treatment of Laryngitis}
$Subject{hoarseness laryngitis voice box larynx windpipe trachea vocal cords
speech speaking bacterial infections bacterial infection viral infection viral
infections}
$Volume{}
$Log{}
Copyright (c) 1993 Tribune Media Services, Inc.
Causes and Treatment of Laryngitis
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
QUESTION: I have been having trouble speaking after a great weekend of fun,
and the thrill and excitement of attending a close football game. I need to
get my voice back fast, for I am a salesman, and can get nowhere with this
hoarse voice. I would like to know if hoarseness and laryngitis are the same
things? Is it an infection that can be helped with an antibiotic? Please
answer soon, as your answer is very important for me.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ANSWER: Hoarseness, or even a complete, temporary loss of the ability to
speak, is but a symptom of laryngitis, although it is certainly the most
common one. Laryngitis is an inflammation of the voice box (or larynx) and
can result either from an infection, or from the irritation that comes with
over-use. The larynx is located at the upper end of the windpipe (trachea),
and contains the vocal cords. When air passes over the vocal cords, they
vibrate, producing the sounds necessary for speaking and singing. However,
these cords become swollen when they are inflamed, and the voice grows hoarse
and weak. In many cases, this irritation is the result of overuse; screaming
and shouting during an eventful and exciting football game can be enough to do
it. However, both viral and bacterial infections may also be the cause of
laryngitis. In the case of bacterial infection, antibiotics are useful. A
simple viral infection will disappear on its own in 2-3 days. If the
condition persists for a longer time, a visit to the physician is in order.
No matter the cause or type of laryngitis, rest is the number one
treatment. And complete rest, at that. Carry a pad and pencil around to
remind you that verbal communication is off limits for a few days. Inhaling
steam from a bowl of hot water or kettle will provide additional humidity to
soothe and help the vocal cords heal. Drink plenty of additional fluids,
particularly warm beverages such as soup and tea. Rest, steam and fluids are
indicated treatments no matter what the cause of your case of laryngitis may
be.
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician. Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.