Consultation
Laryngitis
DEFINITION | CAUSES | SYMPTOMS | TREATMENTS | TESTIMONIALS | FAQ’S
Laryngitis
Your speech is the expression of your thoughts. But, if it is hampered, it’s going to leave you frustrated and irritated. There is a medical condition called laryngitis which can make it difficult for you to speak. Laryngitis is also known as Kanthashoth or Swarabhed in Ayurveda. It is a voice box disorder that causes difficulty in speech and breathing. It can be a result of an irritated voice box or larynx. When the laryngeal mucous membrane becomes swollen, congested, and coated with thick and slimy mucus it is defined as laryngitis. Laryngitis primarily affects the vocal cords and surrounding tissues of the throat. It leads to dryness, inflammation, and irritation in the throat region….
Types of Laryngitis
Acute Laryngitis
Laryngitis is a mild form of throat infection. Acute laryngitis often lasts for over 3-7 days. It is commonly an infection of the upper respiratory tract. It is usually a result of a virus. There can be constant coughing and throat congestion. Environmental factors like seasonal allergy, pollution allergy, or dust can cause irritation in your throat which can result in acute laryngitis. Ayurveda is the best approach for acute laryngitis treatment.
Chronic Laryngitis
In Ayurveda, Chronic Laryngitis is a respiratory tract problem characterized by the imbalance of Vata Dosha and Pitta Dosha. Vata dosha imbalance causes symptoms such as a vibrating voice, and torment around the larynx. But when it occurs due to an imbalance of Pitta Dosha the symptoms are thirst, fever, and vibrating sensations in the laryngeal area. Ayurvedic treatment for chronic laryngitis is the best way to manage its symptoms.
Causes of Laryngitis
- Immune system-Laryngitis can result from a weak immune system that cannot counter-attack infectious agents such as viruses, and bacteria.
- Acid Reflux-Acid Reflux irritates and inflames the laryngeal tissues which can majorly affect the vocal cord if not treated timely.
- Medical Conditions-Some medications, especially the ones causing dryness and throat irritation can lead to chronic laryngitis.
- Respiratory infection-Pre-existing respiratory conditions like Bronchitis or sinusitis if left untreated can be the risk factors for laryngitis.
- Irritants-Irritants present in the environment are also one of the laryngitis causes. When these irritants are inhaled, it can result in inflamed vocal cords.
- Smoking and Alcohol-Smoking and alcohol are both risk factors for laryngitis. Irritants, toxins, and immune-suppressing effects present in them have a negative effect on the respiratory system.
Symptoms of Laryngitis
- Dry cough-There may be persistent coughing which can worsen the inflammation and it is hard to find the reason. It can be a symptom of chronic laryngitis.
- Sore throat-A persistent dry and sore throat is a breeding ground for allergens to attack and develop infection-causing diseases.
- Weak or Losing Voice-Laryngitis signs and symptoms primarily include hoarse voice or breaks and cracks in voice due to inflamed vocal cords.
- Difficulty in swallowing-Swelling can cause sore and scratchy throat which can cause pain while swallowing and talking. They disturb your daily life and you would want a cure for laryngitis at the earliest.
- Throat lumps-Inflammation and irritation may cause a lump sensation in the throat which can be quite painful and uncomforting.
Ayurvedic Treatment for Laryngitis
Prefer eating fresh, warm, and easily digestible foods. Whole grains, green leafy vegetables, fruits, and nuts must be included in your diet. They will replenish the nutrients in the body and help you overcome the disease.
- Herbs like basil, ginger, and turmeric are the best home remedies for sore throat. They have excellent anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which can help you heal faster. These are some of the easy home remedies for laryngitis.
- Take steam, it is the age-old ayurvedic laryngitis treatment to soothe respiratory problems. Prefer adding some essential oils to the steam like tulsi, eucalyptus, or mint. It is very effective in clearing the nasal passage.
- Avoid exposure to cold and dry weather conditions during laryngitis treatment. As per Ayurveda staying warm and well-hydrated will make you recover faster. These are some important precautions for laryngitis treatment at home.
- Take adequate amounts of fluids like herbal teas and fresh juices. It aids in the easy elimination of toxins from the body. This is the best home remedy for sore throat.
- Avoid having hot and spicy foods which heighten the acidic levels of the body. It can cause acid reflux in the throat which can severely damage the throat causing itchiness and a burning sensation.
- Gargle is also one of the best treatments for chronic laryngitis. You can also add some salt, honey, or turmeric to ease the inflammation.
- Self-care practices like resting your voice, getting adequate sleep, and breathing exercises are some of the best home remedies to treat laryngitis effectively.
FAQ's
Ayurveda is the most effective choice when it comes to the treatment of chronic laryngitis. Ayurvedic medicines are based on natural herbs that help you heal in a natural way. Along with treating the disease, they also help in the overall well-being of the body.
The duration of laryngitis treatment depends upon the individual constitution and severity of imbalances. However, taking the medications and following the doctor’s instructions are the key factors. They ensure that you recover as soon as possible.
Herbs like tulsi, neem, ginger, and turmeric are rich in anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They help in reducing the swelling and also increase the rate of recovery. Gargling with warm water also helps to soothe your throat.
Ayurveda is the best option when it comes to laryngitis treatment. Ayurveda is an effective remedy against both acute laryngitis and chronic laryngitis. It aims to treat the disease’s root cause and not just symptoms. Ayurvedic treatment ensures the overall well-being of the body.
Cold and stale foods are avoided during laryngitis. Consumption of spicy, fried, and heavy foods is also minimized as they aggravate Pitta dosha and also cause indigestion. Excessively processed foods, caffeine, and sugars are also avoided as they weaken the immune system.
Ayurvedic herbs like ginger, honey, and tulsi help in the treatment of laryngitis. Have warm, fresh, and nutritious food products. These are some of the remedies to cure laryngitis. However, it is best to consult a doctor for effective treatment of laryngitis.
Yes, It does affect the breathing process. The initial symptoms include a hoarse voice and difficulty in speaking. But later it can extremely cause the larynx to swell. It is not common in adults but majorly affects children as they have smaller and narrower windpipes.
Yes. Warm water gargles are very effective in reducing inflammation. You can also add honey or consume it otherwise. It has anti-inflammatory properties and helps with the healing process.
Yes, laryngitis can be a result of viral or bacterial infection. Laryngitis is mainly caused by influenza or adenovirus. Laryngitis is characterized by a sore throat, hoarse voice, and extreme cough and may sometimes be accompanied by fever and headache.
In severe cases of laryngitis, the inflammation in the vocal cords can be very high to cause a temporary loss of voice. Taking rest and drinking herbal teas is extremely beneficial to bring down the swelling.