Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx characterized by voice loss and irritation of the vocal cords. There are many causes for laryngitis, including smoking, shouting, severe gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), and various allergies. The most common cause of laryngitis, however, is an infection, which could be either viral or bacterial. Laryngitis can also be caused by some serious medical conditions such as tonsillitis, bronchitis, or even pneumonia.

The most common cause of viral laryngitis is an infection of the upper respiratory track, such as a cold or the flu. A viral case of laryngitis cannot be treated with antibiotics, which means your doctor will prescribe rest, steam inhalations, and lots of fluids. A viral laryngitis is not contagious and usually goes away in a couple of days. Using a cool-mist humidifier in the bedroom and avoid smoking may also help. Because there is no medication available to treat viral laryngitis, the best course of action is to treat the symptoms while waiting for the inflammation to go away on its own.

The presence of a fever usually indicates the laryngitis is bacterial. Bacterial laryngitis is contagious, and it's usually acquired from somebody else who is already sick. Bacterial laryngitis is contagious until a day or two after the last symptom has disappeared. In serious infection, this may take a couple of weeks. Aside from a high fever, other symptoms that indicate the presence of bacterial laryngitis are: severe pain rather than a simple sore throat, difficulty swallowing, colored nasal discharge, and pain extending to the ears. Bacterial laryngitis is especially serious in a child, since it can masquerade a severe condition called epiglottitis, where the airway closes almost completely.

If you think you may have bacterial laryngitis, stay home and away from other people. In most cases, your doctor will recommend a course of antibiotics and treating your symptoms at home with voice rest and hot drinks. Until the infection has cleared, it's better to minimize contact with others, as the infection can be spread without direct contact (airborne).Most cases resolve in less than a week, after which is safe to return to your normal routine.