Laryngitis
Laryngitis is an infection or irritation of the larynx, also known as the voice box. This infection causes swelling of the vocal cords and other tissues in the throat area. Its symptoms may include hoarseness or loss of voice, an urge to clear your throat, a painful throat, coughing, fever, or tiredness.

Laryngitis is most often caused by a virus or a cold. However, it can also be brought on by overuse of the vocal cords, such as by yelling, singing, or talking a lot. Other causes may include cigarette smoke, allergies, or stomach acid backing up into the throat. Chronic laryngitis can be caused by heavy drinking or smoking.

You can prevent some cases of laryngitis by simply giving your vocal cords a rest. If you feel minor pain, stop shouting or even talking for a while. Quitting smoking or heavy drinking and avoiding secondhand smoke are also important preventive measures.

Laryngitis can generally be treated effectively at home. With or without medication, it’s likely to heal in five to ten days.

Here are six home treatment tips:
1.) Rest your voice. Talk as little as possible, do not whisper, sing or shout, and try to avoid clearing your throat.
2.) Drink plenty of fluids. Gargle with a glass of warm water that has one teaspoon of salt in it. Drink weak tea with honey or lemon juice in it, or hot water with lemon juice. These can help soothe the throat.
3.) Stop smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
4.) Take a hot, steamy shower, or use a humidifier, and breathe in the vapors.
5.) If the laryngitis is caused by a cold, you’ll want to follow the treatment tips for colds.
6.) If the laryngitis is related to problems with stomach acids, follow the treatment tips for heartburn.

Call your health care professional if hoarseness from laryngitis persists for three to four weeks. Also call if you develop any signs of a bacterial infection, such as a fever, ear or sinus pain.