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Laryngitis Treatment in Gangnam, Seoul

Medically reviewed by Dr. Kim Yoo Suk, MD · Board-certified otolaryngologist · Former professor, Yonsei & Ajou University · Consultations in English

What is laryngitis?

Laryngitis is inflammation of the larynx, the voice box at the top of the windpipe that contains the vocal folds. When the vocal folds swell, they cannot vibrate normally, so the voice becomes hoarse, weak or disappears altogether.

Doctors distinguish acute laryngitis, which comes on suddenly and lasts less than about three weeks, from chronic laryngitis, which persists and usually has an ongoing irritant behind it.

Laryngitis is one of the most common causes of a sudden voice change. It is usually mild, but for teachers, singers, lawyers and anyone who presents for a living, even a few days without a reliable voice can be disruptive, so understanding the cause helps plan a safe return to speaking.

Symptoms

• Hoarseness, weak voice or complete loss of voice
• Dry, scratchy or sore throat
• Tickling sensation and a dry cough
• Need to clear the throat frequently
• With infection: runny nose, low-grade fever and tiredness

Causes

Acute laryngitis

• Viral upper respiratory infections such as the common cold or flu
• Vocal strain from shouting, cheering, singing or long presentations
• Less commonly, bacterial infection

Chronic laryngitis

• Laryngopharyngeal reflux
• Smoking and secondhand smoke
• Chronic postnasal drip and sinus infection
• Inhaled steroid use for asthma
• Ongoing voice overuse, alcohol and exposure to irritants or polluted air

How it's diagnosed at our Gangnam clinic

A history of a recent cold plus a hoarse voice often points to acute viral laryngitis. Dr. Kim can confirm the diagnosis and check for complications using laryngoscopy, which shows swelling and redness of the vocal folds and excludes bleeding into the fold, polyps or other lesions. Laryngoscopy is especially important for professional voice users who need to perform soon, and for anyone whose symptoms persist. In flu season a rapid flu test may be appropriate.

Treatment options

• Voice rest: speak softly and as little as possible; avoid whispering and shouting
• Hydration and humidity: drink water, use a humidifier and inhale steam
• Avoid irritants: no smoking, limit alcohol and caffeine
• Symptom relief: lozenges and pain relievers as needed
• Treat the underlying cause: reflux medication, nasal treatment for postnasal drip, or antibiotics if a bacterial infection is confirmed

For persistent hoarseness from chronic laryngitis, voice therapy helps reduce strain while the underlying cause is treated.

When to see an ENT

See an ENT if hoarseness lasts more than two to three weeks, if you depend on your voice for work, or if you smoke. Seek urgent care for difficulty breathing, noisy breathing (stridor), drooling, difficulty swallowing, or coughing up blood.

Seeing Dr. Kim in English

Dr. Kim, a board-certified ENT and former professor at Yonsei and Ajou universities, sees patients with voice problems alongside his nose and sinus subspecialty work. He gives clear, English-language advice on how much to rest your voice before an important meeting or performance. Find directions on our location and hours page.

Frequently asked questions

How long does laryngitis last?

Acute viral laryngitis usually improves within one to two weeks. If hoarseness lasts more than two to three weeks, it may be chronic laryngitis or another vocal fold problem, and an ENT examination with laryngoscopy is recommended.

Do I need antibiotics for laryngitis?

Usually not. Most acute laryngitis is caused by viruses or voice strain, which antibiotics do not treat. Antibiotics are considered only when a bacterial infection is likely. Voice rest, hydration and treating the underlying cause are the mainstays.

Can I still give a presentation with laryngitis?

Pushing a swollen voice can risk further injury, such as bleeding into the vocal fold. If an important event is coming up, an ENT can examine your vocal folds and advise whether it is safe to use your voice and how to protect it.

This page is general medical information written and reviewed by an ENT specialist. It is not a diagnosis. Symptoms differ between people — please see a doctor for an examination. In an emergency in Korea, call 119.