Each year when the weather changes from fall to winter, there is an influx of people heading to the doctor with a sore throat and little to no voice. They will quickly be diagnosed with laryngitis. If you’ve never had it, you may be looking for help for your laryngitis.

What is laryngitis?

The larynx, a two-inch tubular chamber in the throat, is also called the voice box. Laryngitis occurs when the vocal cords (which are made up of cartilage, ligaments, and membranes) are inflamed. Laryngitis generally isn’t a serious condition and usually lasts less than seven days. It can last longer but long-term laryngitis is rare.

What are the symptoms?

Many of the symptoms associated with laryngitis can also be symptoms for other illnesses. Most people will experience one or more of the following:

* Sore throat
* Hoarseness
* Weak or no voice
* Sensation of needing to clear the throat
* Dry cough
* Fever
* Tickling sensation or rawness in the throat
* Dry throat