From the Research
Allergic laryngitis should be treated with a combination of identifying and avoiding allergen triggers, antihistamines like cetirizine (10mg daily) or loratadine (10mg daily), and inhaled corticosteroids such as fluticasone (2 sprays in each nostril daily) to reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms, as recommended by the most recent and highest quality study 1.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Allergic laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx (voice box) caused by an allergic reaction. The diagnosis of allergic laryngitis involves identifying the underlying allergen triggers and assessing the severity of symptoms.
Key Treatment Strategies
- Identifying and avoiding allergen triggers, such as dust, pollen, pet dander, or certain foods, is crucial in managing allergic laryngitis.
- Antihistamines like cetirizine (10mg daily) or loratadine (10mg daily) can reduce allergic responses and alleviate symptoms, as supported by studies 2, 3.
- Inhaled corticosteroids such as fluticasone (2 sprays in each nostril daily) may help reduce inflammation and are recommended for moderate to severe allergic rhinitis, which can be associated with allergic laryngitis 1, 4.
- For severe cases, a short course of oral steroids like prednisone (typically 20-40mg daily for 5-7 days, tapering down) might be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling.
Additional Recommendations
- Voice rest is essential during flare-ups to reduce strain on the vocal cords and prevent further irritation.
- Staying well-hydrated helps maintain mucous membrane health and can aid in reducing symptoms.
- Using a humidifier at night can prevent throat dryness and reduce discomfort.
- Proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole (20mg daily) may be recommended if gastroesophageal reflux contributes to symptoms, as suggested by studies 5.
Importance of Accurate Diagnosis
Allergic laryngitis differs from infectious laryngitis as it results from an immune response rather than infection, explaining why antibiotics are ineffective. If symptoms persist despite treatment, allergy testing may be necessary to identify specific triggers for more targeted management, highlighting the importance of accurate diagnosis and personalized treatment plans 1, 4.