Laryngitis is inflammation of the voice box (larynx). The most
common cause of short-lived (acute) laryngitis is a viral
infection of the upper airways, such as the common cold.
Laryngitis also may accompany bronchitis or any other
inflammation or infection of the upper airways. Excessive use of
the voice, an allergic reaction, and inhalation of irritants
such as cigarette smoke can cause acute or persistent (chronic)
laryngitis. Bacterial infections of the vocal cords are
extremely rare. Chronic laryngitis, in which symptoms last
longer than 3 weeks, may be caused by gastroesophageal reflux,
and less commonly by lingering bronchitis. People with bulimia
who vomit frequently may develop laryngitis. Symptoms are an
unnatural change of voice, such as hoarseness, or even loss of
voice that develops within hours to a day or so. The throat may
tickle or feel raw, and a person may have a constant urge to
clear the throat. Symptoms vary with the severity of the
inflammation. Fever, a general feeling of illness (mala