A lost voice is caused by problems with the larynx, most commonly laryngitis. An inflammation there can cause changes in the way that the vocal chords vibrate.
- Voice loss with laryngitis is temporary, but is can also be chronic
- Chronic Laryngitis is Laryngitis that lasts more than 3 weeks
- The condition is usually brought on by a bacterial infection
- Some people will experience hoarseness, while some will not be able to speak at all
- Most of time, the symptoms do not exceed a couple of weeks
- When hoarseness is permanent, it could signal something more than just laryngitis
Causes
Some of the most common causes of laryngitis include:
- Common cold infection
- Bacterial infections
- Over stress of the vocal chords
- Voice overuse
Aside from the above, laryngitis may also be caused by:
- Acid Reflux Disease – when the acid from the stomach damages the vocal cords
- Smoking – can be slow in progress
- Inhaled irritants
- Excessive use of alcohol
- Respiratory infections including bronchitis
Other possible causing of hoarseness aside from laryngitis include:
- Cancer
- Old Age – the vocal colds can bow with age
- Vocal Cold Paralysis
Symptoms:
- Hoarseness
- Sore throat
- Dry cough
- A tickling sensation on throat
- A sensation of rawness on the throat
- Dry throat
Treatment
- Most of the time, acute laryngitis can be easily managed at home
- Rest is necessary
Home Remedy for Lost Voice
Here are some tried and tested home remedies for laryngitis.
- Rest
- patients need to avoid talking or trying to talk
- this can aggravate the laryngitis further and cause more problems
- in some cases, straining your voice can even cause permanent damage to the voice box, resulting in permanent vocal changes
- Avoid whispering too as this can also cause strain on the voice
- Mild Teas
- The warmth helps to sooth the inflamed tissue
- Do not drink tea that is too hot or tea that contains irritants
- A fresh ginger tea can also help relieve the irritation
- Honey Lemon Drink
- A mixture of two parts lemon with one part honey and 10 parts water can be taken cool, room temperature, or warm
- It helps to sooth the laryngitis
- Increased Water Intake
- This helps to keep the patient hydrated
- Humidifier Use
- Delivers moist air that does not irritate the vocal cords and throat