Laryngitis

The larynx, or voice box, sits at the back of the throat above the windpipe. It contains the stretchy bands of tissue which form the vocal chords, as well as the epiglottis – the valve which covers the windpipe when we swallow to prevent foods or liquid entering the lungs.

Various infections and disorders, including cancer, can affect the larynx however laryngitis is the most common.

There are two types of laryngitis – acute and chronic. Acute laryngitis is a sudden inflammation of the larynx caused by a viral infection or common cold. Over-using the voice – for example singing or yelling – or irritation from cigarette smoke can also cause the larynx to redden and swell.

Chronic laryngitis is a persistent horseness, almost always caused by smoking or voice abuse, such as frequent shouting. Prolonged exposure to air pollutants, such as dust, can also cause chronic laryngitis.

The symptoms of laryngitis include:

• Horseness
• Loss of voice
• Pain in the throat
• Raw tenderness at the back of the throat
• A constant urge to clear the throat
• Breathing difficulties.

What can be done?

Laryngitis should be diagnosed by a doctor. The most common advice is resting the voice, use of pain-kiling medications, and if necessary, antibiotics to clear up any infection.

Steam inhalation: is also one of the most effective natural methods of helping relieve the symptoms of laryngitis. It opens up the airways, allowing easier breathing, and soothes the raw irritated passages of the throat until the inflammation subsides. 

Try one of these methods

• Traditional bowl inhalation: Add a capful of Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Oil to a bowl of warm water and with the face 15-20cm away, inhale the vapours. Eucalyptus oil is a powerful natural decongestant and antibacterial which has been used for centuries to help ease the symptoms of respiratory illness.
• Hand-held vapour inhalers: Perfect for the office or for a more portable, convenient method of steam inhalation. Personal vapour inhalers such as Bosisto’s Vapour Combo can be used with eucalyptus oil or a eucalyptus-based inhalant such as Bosisto’s Eucalyptus Inhalant, which is soluble in water.
• Steam Vaporisers: The best way to treat symptoms whilst sick in bed, or at night. Using a water-soluble inhalant in the vaporiser creates a soothing, medicated steam which is beneficial for the throat and airways. Steam Vaporisers are also a perfect alternative for treating children with croup (a viral form of laryngitis).
• Cool Mist Vaporizers: Vaporizers such as the Vicks Cool Mist have the added advantage of an air filter which removes 93% of dust, tobacco smoke, pollen and other particles. This may be helpful for laryngitis sufferers, who can be sensitive to airborne irritants. The Cool Mist is also more suitable for hotter, drier weather.