From the Guidelines
Laryngitis treatment should primarily focus on supportive care, including rest, hydration, and symptom management, rather than antibiotic use, as most cases are caused by acute viral laryngitis, which is self-limited and resolves within 7 to 10 days irrespective of treatment. The routine empiric use of antibiotics in treating patients with dysphonia is unwarranted, as they are effective only in bacterial infections, and their misuse exposes patients and the health care system to unnecessary costs and risks, such as side effects and antibiotic resistance 1.
Key components of supportive care for laryngitis include:
- Resting the voice to reduce vocal cord strain
- Drinking plenty of fluids to keep the throat moist and help thin mucus
- Using a humidifier or breathing steam from a hot shower to add moisture to the air and soothe irritated vocal cords
- Taking over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen for pain relief
- Using throat lozenges or warm salt water gargles for temporary comfort
- Avoiding irritants such as smoking, alcohol, and spicy foods
Antibiotics may be appropriate in select circumstances, such as in immunosuppressed patients or those with bacterial infections like laryngeal tuberculosis or pertussis, but the diagnosis should be established prior to initiation of therapy 1. It is essential to seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond two weeks, if there is difficulty breathing or swallowing, or if a fever above 103°F (39.4°C) develops.
From the Research
Laryngitis Treatment Overview
- Laryngitis is a common illness that can be acute or chronic, with various causes and symptoms [ 2 ].
- Treatment for laryngitis depends on the underlying cause and severity of symptoms [ 3 ].
Acute Laryngitis Treatment
- Antibiotics may not be effective in treating acute laryngitis, as they do not significantly improve symptoms [ 2 ].
- Erythromycin may reduce voice disturbance and cough at one and two weeks, respectively, but these outcomes may not be relevant in clinical practice [ 2 ].
Chronic Laryngitis Treatment
- Chronic laryngitis is an inflammatory process that can be caused by infectious, inflammatory, or autoimmune factors [ 4 ].
- Treatment for chronic laryngitis depends on the underlying cause and may involve managing symptoms and addressing underlying conditions [ 3 ].