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| ==Treatment== | | ==Treatment== |
| Correct treatment depends on a correct diagnosis of the underlying cause of laryngitis. The most prevalent cause of a missed diagnosis of laryngeal [[cancer]] is a belief that persistent hoarseness is due to laryngitis. Should hoarseness last for more than 3 weeks, one should consult an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat physician) for an examination including direct visualization of the vocal cords. This examination may also detect the presence of [[vocal fold nodules|vocal cord nodules]], a structural change resulting in persistent hoarseness or loss of voice.
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| If laryngitis is due to a viral cause:
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| * [[Ibuprofen]] and [[aspirin]] may help alleviate fever and some of the discomfort associated with laryngitis.
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| * Patients are advised to avoid [[Speech communication|speaking]] when possible. They are instructed to speak softly, but to avoid whispering, which further strains the voice.<ref>Mayoclinic.com. 2006. [http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/laryngitis/DS00366/DSECTION=9 Laryngitis: Self care]</ref>
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| * [[Nasal breathing]] is very important so as not to dry the [[throat]].
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| * Throat clearing is very bad. The act of clearing one's throat is very stressful and may aggravate the laryngitis.
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| * Humidifiers and warm showers can also help alleviate some symptoms.
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| * Airborne irritants such as smoke and allergens may exacerbate the condition.
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| * Gargling with a salt water rinse is suggested. Mouth rinses containing [[alcohol]] can dry the throat and may exacerbate a viral case of laryngitis (however, these can be helpful when the cause of the infection is bacterial).
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| * A tea of [[ginger]] may help reduce swelling of the vocal cords and relieve symptoms.
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| * [[Steroid]] medications may be prescribed to help accelerate the healing of the inflammation present.
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| If laryngitis is due to [[gastroesophageal reflux]]:
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| * The patient may be instructed to take a nonprescription medication such as Zantac or Prilosec for a period of 4-6 weeks.
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| If laryngitis is due to a bacterial or fungal infection:
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| * The patient may be prescribed a course of antibiotics or anti-fungal medication.
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| If persistent hoarseness or loss of voice (''sometimes called'' "laryngitis") is a result of [[vocal fold nodules|vocal cord nodules]]:
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| * Physicians may recommend a course of treatment that may include a surgical procedure and/or speech therapy.
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| * Reduction of high-impact stress to the vocal cords caused by loud, frequent, and rapid speech is recommended.
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| ==External links== | | ==External links== |