Diagnosis of acute laryngitis

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Acute laryngitis

The author of the article is Olga Petrovna Chuklina, general practitioner, therapist. Work experience since 2003.

Laryngitis is a disease in which inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx occurs.

Table of contents:

Inflammation can affect the mucous membranes of the vocal cords, epiglottis, and subglottic cavity.

Laryngitis differs from pharyngitis in that with pharyngitis the inflammation is localized only on the mucous membranes of the pharynx, there are no changes in the voice, and during laryngoscopy the vocal cords are not changed.

Causes

The following main reasons for the development of acute laryngitis in adults can be identified:

  • viral and bacterial infections;
  • exposure to allergens;
  • prolonged inhalation of excessively polluted air, especially in industrial production;
  • fungal infections;
  • intense load on the vocal cords.

Among the viral infections that most often cause laryngitis:

The source of bacterial inflammation in adults is most often foci of chronic infection. The following diseases can be sources:

There are also a number of factors contributing to the development of acute laryngitis:

  • hypothermia of the body;
  • breathing through the mouth outside during the cold season;
  • eating cold foods;
  • smoking;
  • deviated nasal septum;
  • constant intense stress on the vocal cords.

According to the severity of inflammation of the mucous membranes, they are distinguished:

  • diffuse (spread) laryngitis;
  • limited (local) laryngitis.

Diffuse acute laryngitis is characterized by the development of inflammation of the mucous membranes of all parts of the larynx. And limited acute laryngitis is characterized by the development of inflammation of the mucous membranes of one area (epiglottis, vocal cords, subglottic area).

According to the course, all laryngitis in adults is divided into acute and chronic.

Acute laryngitis in adults lasts no more than two weeks, and chronic laryngitis lasts more than three weeks and occurs with periods of exacerbations and remissions of the inflammatory process.

Symptoms of acute laryngitis

For acute laryngitis of a viral nature, the characteristic onset of the disease is the appearance of signs of intoxication, which are manifested by the following symptoms:

The patient also has signs of inflammation of the nasopharynx:

  • inflammation of the nasal mucosa - copious mucous discharge from the nose;
  • inflammation of the mucous membranes of the throat - hyperemia and granularity of the back wall of the pharynx.

Manifestations of acute laryngitis are characterized by the presence of the following symptoms:

  • pain and sore throat;
  • dry cough;
  • hoarseness of voice or its complete absence (aphonia);
  • paroxysmal barking cough;
  • feeling of dryness in the throat.

Subsequently, after a few days, the cough becomes productive (wet), and the patient begins to produce sputum.

With the development of bacterial inflammation from foci of chronic infection, all the symptoms characteristic of acute laryngitis develop, but there may be no increase in temperature, or it increases slightly.

When examining the mucous membranes of the larynx, you can find:

  • hyperemia of the mucous membranes (spread or focal);
  • swelling of the mucous membranes of the larynx.

Diagnostics

If signs of illness appear, you should consult an otolaryngologist.

The diagnosis of acute inflammation of the larynx is established after interviewing the patient and examination.

The larynx is examined using indirect and direct laryngoscopy.

Indirect laryngoscopy is performed using mirrors, and direct laryngoscopy is performed using an endoscopic apparatus.

Laryngoscopy can reveal:

  • redness of the larynx;
  • mucous discharge;
  • swelling of the walls of the larynx, epiglottis, vocal cords;
  • There may be minor hemorrhagic changes (hemorrhages in the submucosal layer).

What tests to take

Among the general tests for acute inflammation of the larynx, a general blood test is performed - it can detect signs of nonspecific inflammation (an increase in the number of leukocytes, an increase in the erythrocyte sedimentation rate of ESR).

The allergic nature of the inflammatory process is characterized by an increase in the number of eosinophils in the general blood test.

Differential diagnosis is carried out with such a terrible disease as diphtheria. But with diphtheria, the patient develops all the symptoms gradually, while with acute laryngitis of a viral or bacterial nature, the disease develops quickly. Also, with diphtheria, damage to the palatine tonsils first develops, with gradual spread to neighboring organs.

Additionally, one should distinguish between viral, bacterial and allergic inflammation. The main difference between allergic acute laryngitis is that it occurs without signs of intoxication of the body. And in order to distinguish viral and bacterial laryngitis, it is necessary to conduct a bacteriological study of the mucous discharge and identify the causative agent.

Treatment of acute laryngitis

Self-medication of the disease is unacceptable; this can lead to the development of chronic inflammation or the spread of infection to nearby organs.

Treatment of acute inflammation of the larynx is carried out on an outpatient basis under the supervision of an otolaryngologist.

There are general recommendations for treatment:

If there are signs of intoxication, mandatory adherence to bed rest for the entire intoxication period;

  • drinking plenty of water;
  • voice rest;
  • ensuring access to fresh air (room ventilation);
  • to give up smoking;
  • giving up alcohol;
  • exclusion of irritating foods (spicy, hot foods);
  • maintaining normal air humidity.

In the treatment of acute laryngitis, the main role is given to etiotropic therapy aimed at the causative agent of the disease.

To treat a viral infection, some therapists prescribe antiviral drugs, but it should be noted that the effectiveness of these drugs has not been proven :

For proven bacterial infection, antibiotics are prescribed:

  • Flemoxin Solutab (amoxicillin);
  • Chemomycin (azithromycin);
  • Clarithromycin.

At a body temperature of 38.5 degrees or more, antipyretic drugs are used:

Local antiseptics are used:

In case of frequent paroxysmal dry cough in the first days of illness, the use of antitussive drugs is allowed, only in consultation with the attending physician:

  • Sinecod (butamirate citrate);
  • Libexin (prenoxdiazine);
  • Codelac (codeine).

When a cough becomes productive, agents are used that thin and facilitate sputum production:

If there is an allergic component, antihistamines are used:

Inhalations are carried out using a nebulizer, for this purpose the following are used:

  • Saline;
  • Mineral water;
  • Ambrobene, Lazolvan and other water-based preparations with ambroxol.

For severe inflammation, inhaled hormonal drugs are used:

Physiotherapeutic treatment is also prescribed:

Treatment is usually carried out over one to two weeks.

Complications

The most common complications of acute laryngitis are:

  • transition of the disease to a chronic form;
  • spread of infection to nearby organs with the development of bronchitis, tracheitis, pneumonia.

Prevention

There are no specific preventative measures for acute laryngitis.

There are general preventive measures:

  • increasing immunity (hardening, maintaining a healthy lifestyle);
  • timely treatment of chronic inflammatory diseases;
  • to give up smoking;
  • giving up alcohol;
  • reducing the load on the vocal cords;
  • prevention of viral infections;
  • sanitation of the oral cavity (dental treatment).

Summary

  • pain and sore throat;
  • dry cough;
  • hoarseness of voice or its complete absence (aphonia);
  • paroxysmal barking cough;
  • feeling of dryness in the throat.

Diagnosis by symptoms

Find out your probable illnesses and which doctor you should go to.

Source: http://www.diagnos.ru/diseases/pulmonis/ostryj-laringit

Acute laryngitis: symptoms. It is important to consult an ENT specialist to determine the type of disease

Acute laryngitis is an inflammatory disease of the pharyngeal mucosa, and pathological processes can spread to the internal muscles of the larynx.

The disease is equally likely to affect both adults and children.

What is acute laryngitis?

Typically, this disease is a consequence of exposure to infectious pathogens on the mucous membrane. Sometimes the processes spread to the initial parts of the trachea, and in this case the pathology is called “laryngotracheitis”.

According to statistics, acute laryngitis is the most common disease of the upper respiratory tract.

As a separate disease, this pathology occurs infrequently, but in any case, based on the symptoms, the disease can be mistakenly diagnosed as pharyngitis.

The only differences are that with pharyngitis, the changes do not affect the vocal apparatus, and the ligaments look normal upon examination.

How does acute laryngitis occur?

Acute laryngitis begins to manifest itself around the second day, but sometimes symptoms appear only after five days.

When examining the pharynx, redness and swelling are observed, and if laryngitis becomes severe, dilated vessels become noticeable on the back wall of the pharynx, which look like burgundy-red dots.

Initially, the primary symptoms of most colds begin to appear (cough, irritation in the throat, dryness).

Then the signs of laryngitis become more and more intense, in addition, the patient begins to have headaches, and the temperature rises over time and, without appropriate treatment, remains at a high level for a long time.

Causes of the disease

The cause of the development of acute laryngitis is almost always opportunistic microorganisms that live in every person, but such viruses and infections become more active mainly against the background of a decrease in the functions of the immune system.

In turn, this also requires some prerequisites. For example, immunity is significantly reduced by hypothermia, even if a person is hardened and resistant to cold.

Additional factors that can directly or indirectly trigger the development of the disease are:

  • various kinds of infectious diseases (scarlet fever, measles, influenza and whooping cough);
  • too much stress on the vocal apparatus (mostly, contrary to popular belief, this occurs not only among singers and actors, but also among people who have become accustomed to speaking in a raised voice);
  • activities associated with prolonged stay in dusty rooms or work in enterprises where contact with various chemicals is expected;
  • nasal breathing disorders, which can be either congenital or caused by trauma (for example, nasal fractures);
  • constant exposure to unfavorable climatic conditions, when a person constantly breathes too dry, excessively hot or, conversely, cold air;
  • various inflammatory processes in the larynx and nasopharynx (as well as inflammation in the oral cavity that does not directly affect the larynx);
  • abuse of tobacco and alcohol, which not only weaken the immune system, but also adversely affect the mucous membrane of the larynx;
  • long-term drug treatment;
  • allergies of various origins.

In addition, acute laryngitis can be caused by diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, in which digestive processes are disrupted and aggressive stomach contents enter the larynx through the esophagus.

Acute laryngitis: symptoms

Symptoms of acute laryngitis may vary depending on the origin of the disease.

If this is a disease of infectious origin, the patient experiences the following symptoms:

  • chills and fever;
  • intoxication of the body;
  • increase in body temperature up to several degrees;
  • general fatigue and weakness in the body;
  • muscle and headaches;
  • copious discharge from the nose and throat due to inflammatory processes occurring in these areas;
  • dry cough;
  • sore throat;
  • decreased voice timbre or complete loss of vocal cord function.

The cough remains dry only in the first stages of the disease. Subsequently, it turns into a productive form and is characterized by the production of sputum.

If laryngitis is caused by pathogenic bacteria, most of the symptoms remain the same, but there may not be an increase in body temperature. In rare cases, these are minor increases that can be ignored.

Also, with bacterial acute laryngitis, during diagnosis and during visual examination, swelling of the mucous membrane of the pharynx and hyperemia of the mucous membranes (processes of excessive filling of the affected tissues with blood) are observed.

How is acute laryngitis diagnosed?

If the above symptoms or at least several of them appear, you should contact an ENT specialist.

The doctor will be able to diagnostically determine the type of acute laryngitis and prescribe the correct treatment.

The doctor first collects anamnesis by interviewing the patient, which may be followed by an examination using direct or indirect laryngoscopy (sometimes both methods are used simultaneously).

In the first case, the examination is carried out using an endoscopic apparatus, and in the second, special medical mirrors are used. Such methods allow you to immediately see mucus secretions and see the reddened affected areas of the larynx.

Useful video

In this video you will learn about what laryngitis is and what its symptoms are:

After such an examination, an accurate diagnosis can be made and, depending on the severity of the disease, treatment can be prescribed.

Source: http://prostudanet.com/bolezni/gorlo/laringit/ostryj/ostr-lar-simpt.html

Acute laryngitis: causes and treatment

Often acute respiratory diseases are complicated by laryngitis, an inflammation of the larynx. To prevent complications, you need to know what laryngitis is, the symptoms of the disease, the causes of its occurrence and how to deal with it.

What is laryngitis?

Laryngitis is an acute or chronic inflammatory disease of the larynx and vocal cords of a viral nature. It can be either an independent disease or a consequence of another infectious disease. Most often, acute laryngitis is a complication of ARVI, whooping cough, influenza, measles, scarlet fever and other diseases. If not treated in a timely manner, it can become chronic.

Types of acute laryngitis

• Acute catarrhal laryngitis - during the development of the disease, the mucous membrane, submucosal layer and internal muscles of the throat are affected.

• Acute phlegmous laryngitis – pus damage to the outer layers, muscles and ligaments of the larynx, in some cases the disease spreads to the cartilage and periosteum.

Causes of acute laryngitis

Acute laryngitis is temporary: after the main cause that caused the disease is eliminated, the symptoms of the disease go away. During treatment, the patient should try to talk less so as not to overstrain the inflamed vocal cords. If it is not possible to completely exclude conversations, then they should be whispered.

Acute laryngitis - causes:

• viral infections (ARVI, influenza, etc.);

• viral diseases (measles, mumps, whooping cough, etc.);

• bacterial infections (eg diphtheria);

• overstrain of the vocal cords (strong screaming, loud speech);

• contact with a patient with ARVI;

• inhalation of cold air;

• inhalation of microirritants (caustic and hot vapors);

• dysfunction of the immune system;

• gastroesophageal reflux (reflux of acidic stomach contents into the esophagus).

Chronic laryngitis - causes

Chronic laryngitis is a disease that lasts more than three weeks. This form of the disease is caused by prolonged irritation of the vocal cords and larynx. If left untreated, chronic laryngitis can cause deformation, injury to the vocal cords, or lead to the formation of growths on them.

The main reasons for the development of chronic laryngitis:

• external irritants (chemical gases, smoke, allergens);

• alcohol abuse;

• bacterial and fungal infections;

• respiratory infections (flu, ARVI, bronchitis, sinusitis);

• hazardous production (inhalation of harmful chemicals);

Acute and chronic laryngitis require mandatory treatment. The patient needs to consult a specialist to determine the cause of the disease and receive the necessary therapy.

Signs of acute laryngitis in adults

The incubation period of the disease can range from several hours to several days.

• the main symptom of acute laryngitis is hoarseness of voice up to its complete absence;

• acute laryngitis in adults is manifested by soreness, burning and scratching in the throat;

• dry throat;

• dry barking cough;

• pain in the throat that gets worse when swallowing or talking;

• deterioration of the patient's general condition (weakness, fever - no higher than 37°C, in severe cases body temperature rises to 39-40°C);

• the disease may be accompanied by symptoms of ARVI (rhinitis, nasal congestion);

• phlegmous laryngitis and laryngeal abscess are manifested by severe pain in the throat, swallowing disorder;

• if acute laryngitis is accompanied by swelling, then the patient experiences shortness of breath and a sensation of a lump in the throat.

Symptoms of laryngitis in children

Children under 3 years of age are most susceptible to laryngitis. This is due to the fact that at an early age there is a large amount of loose connective tissue near the larynx, while the larynx itself is narrow. Once in the throat, the infection quickly spreads through the mucous membrane, causing thickening of the larynx. The inflamed larynx increases in size and prevents air from entering the airways. This condition is called "acute stenotic laryngitis." In children, this disease can become life-threatening. Children prone to allergic reactions are at risk. Older children tolerate laryngitis much easier.

• laryngitis mainly develops against the background of acute respiratory viral infection or influenza;

• severe swelling of the larynx appears;

• high probability of airway spasm;

• increases the risk of developing acute shortness of breath with a severe complication - respiratory failure;

• the child has trouble swallowing and has a sore throat;

• attacks of shortness of breath mainly appear during sleep (in the supine position);

• a child wakes up from a choking attack with blue lips;

• the attack is accompanied by a strong barking cough, but the voice is not changed;

• the attack can be repeated every minute;

• the attack may stop on its own.

If a child wakes up from a choking attack, parents should immediately call emergency services. It is also important to help the baby, to alleviate his condition before the doctors arrive:

• first of all, calm the child down;

• important: do not put the child down, otherwise the likelihood of a repeated attack of suffocation will increase; it is better if he is in a sitting position;

• ventilate the room in which the baby slept so that the air in the room becomes cool;

• you can let the child breathe in warm steam;

• Warm foot baths will help calm the baby; after the procedure, be sure to wipe the feet dry;

• give the child a warm drink;

• Never leave your child unattended.

If a child suddenly develops acute laryngitis, only a doctor can tell you how to treat the disease. Self-medication is strictly prohibited.

Treatment of acute laryngitis in adults

• First of all, the patient needs to limit vocal stress, it is better to talk in a whisper.

• Complete smoking cessation.

• The air in the room where the patient is located must be humid.

• The patient is prescribed inhalations, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory drugs.

• The patient is prescribed special procedures for treating the larynx with medications. This treatment is performed by an otolaryngologist using a special laryngeal syringe.

• According to indications, the doctor prescribes antibacterial agents.

• When acute laryngitis is diagnosed, treatment consists not only of taking medications, but also of observing certain dietary restrictions: hot, cold, spicy and salty foods, as well as alcohol, are excluded from the diet.

• Treatment of complicated forms of laryngitis (phlegmous, edematous and chondroperichondritis laryngitis, laryngeal abscess, laryngeal stenosis) is carried out in hospital treatment.

• For edematous laryngitis, decongestants, antihistamines and hormonal drugs are indicated.

• Treatment of acute laryngitis in adults in the subsiding stage of the disease includes voice and breathing exercises.

• In an emergency situation during suffocation, surgical intervention is performed - tracheotomy.

• Laryngeal abscess is treated surgically under local anesthesia.

In the case of acute laryngitis, symptoms and treatment are interconnected. The method of therapy directly depends on the severity of the disease.

When the patient is hospitalized, a medical history of acute laryngitis is compiled, which contains the following information:

• objective research (indicators of physical development);

• general examination of the patient;

• respiratory system;

• organs of the digestive system;

• nervous system and sensory organs.

Treatment of acute laryngitis in adults is prescribed only after filling out a medical history.

Acute laryngitis in children - treatment

In acute laryngitis not accompanied by laryngeal stenosis, anti-inflammatory therapy with fenspiride is prescribed. Anti-inflammatory and bactericidal therapy with fusafungine is indicated for patients over 2.5 years of age. If the cause of laryngitis is an allergic reaction, then antihistamines are prescribed to prevent the development of laryngeal edema, which often accompanies acute laryngitis in children. Treatment also consists of taking antipyretics, antitussives and mucolytics. These medications are prescribed to the child only when necessary.

Acute laryngitis: symptoms and treatment of laryngeal stenosis in children

Treatment of laryngeal edema directly depends on the severity (stage) of stenosis. At stage 1 of stenosing laryngitis, the drug Fenspiride is prescribed, for children over 2.5 years old - Fusafungin. Medicines prescribed for cough include: Acetylcysteine, Ambroxol, Fenistil, Suprastin, Zyrtec. For fever - antipyretics. In some cases, sedatives are prescribed.

For stages 2, 3 and 4 of stenosing laryngitis, the same drugs are prescribed as for stage 1. But treatment is already based on the use of glucocorticoids (Prednisolone, Dexamethasone, Fluticasone, Budesonide). The second most important drug in the treatment of stages 2, 3, 4 is Salbutamol. Children over 4 years old can take the medicine "Atrovent".

Antibacterial therapy is also indicated for acute laryngitis. These drugs are: Ceftriaxone, Cefotaxime, Cefepime.

Treatment of acute laryngitis is carried out on an outpatient basis, but in case of prolonged severe course of the disease, hospitalization is indicated. If conservative therapy does not produce results and the patient’s condition worsens, surgical treatment is indicated.

Diagnostics

The diagnosis of “acute laryngitis” is made using two diagnostic methods:

• laryngoscopy – visual examination of the vocal cords using light and small mirrors; the examination can also be done using an endoscope with a tiny camera;

• biopsy - taking tissue samples for examination under a microscope allows you to most accurately identify acute laryngitis.

Treatment of the disease is prescribed only after the diagnostic results.

Complications

• Severe forms of laryngitis increase the risk of suffocation.

• Purulent laryngitis can lead to serious complications: diffuse purulent inflammation of the tissues of the neck (neck phlegmon), inflammation of the space in the middle parts of the chest cavity (mediastinitis), spread of infection throughout the body through the blood (sepsis), formation of a cavity with pus in the lung (lung abscess ).

• If the patient has been diagnosed with “acute laryngitis,” treatment must be timely, otherwise the disease will become chronic.

Prevention

• When communicating with ARVI patients, use personal protective equipment.

• Harden the body.

• Lead a healthy lifestyle.

• Avoid hypothermia and drafts.

• Keep your immune system functioning well by taking a multivitamin.

• Give up bad habits.

• If you have stomach problems, be sure to consult a doctor.

• Avoid putting foreign objects such as fish bones into your throat.

• Avoid contact with allergens, take antihistamines if necessary.

Source: http://www.syl.ru/article/167361/new_ostryiy-laringit-prichinyi-i-lechenie

What is acute laryngitis?

Upper respiratory tract diseases are widespread among all segments of the population. Anyone can get a respiratory infection. But it proceeds differently, depending on the level of damage. One of these options is acute laryngitis. It is more common than others in the structure of laryngeal pathology. This means that it would be useful to consider the features of the disease: what laryngitis is, how the acute form manifests itself and how to treat inflammation.

Causes and mechanisms

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx. An acute process occurs under the influence of an infectious agent, that is, various microbes: bacteria, viruses, fungi or their associations. But a damaging stimulus can also have completely different effects. Therefore, in the mechanism of laryngitis development, great importance is given to non-infectious factors:

  • Eating food that is too hot or cold.
  • Bad habits (smoking, drinking alcohol).
  • Occupational hazards (dust, chemical aerosols).
  • Overstrain of the vocal cords (singers, speakers, teachers).
  • Traumatic injuries to the larynx and pharynx.
  • Allergic reactions.
  • General hypothermia.
  • Gastroesophageal reflux.
  • Reducing the body's immune reactivity.

Quite often, laryngitis develops as a result of activation of flora, which is already found in a person’s nasopharynx and laryngopharynx. These microbes are saprophytes, but under favorable conditions they can become pathogenic. And a decrease in local and general defenses of the body only contributes to this.

Inflammation can also spread from other parts of the upper respiratory tract with nasopharyngitis and rhinitis. Often, damage to the larynx is part of common infections (measles, rubella, influenza). Even ordinary ARVI with laryngitis is a fairly common condition.

Classification

Laryngitis, as an inflammatory process in the upper respiratory tract, varies in clinical course. According to the generally accepted classification, damage to the laryngeal mucosa has an acute or chronic form. The latter is characterized by long-term inflammation. But acute laryngitis occurs against the background of complete well-being. In turn, it has several varieties:

  1. Catarrhal.
  2. Infiltrative.
  3. Phlegmonous (purulent).
  4. Subglottic (false croup).

This division is based on the principle of the prevalence of the inflammatory process, and therefore its severity. A separate form of laryngitis is represented by false croup, in which a narrowing of the airway lumen occurs. It occurs in childhood and is caused by the anatomical features of the subglottic space - the presence of loose fiber, which gives a pronounced reaction to the introduction of an infectious agent.

According to the generally accepted classification, there are several variants of acute laryngitis, which have their own characteristics.

Clinical picture

The symptoms of laryngitis are largely determined by the prevalence of the inflammatory process. It can affect the entire mucous membrane or a separate area of ​​it: the interarytenoid, or subglottic space, epiglottis, vestibular region, vocal cords. If we consider the typical course of the disease, the most common symptoms of acute laryngitis will be the following:

  • Feeling of soreness and soreness in the throat, feeling of a foreign body.
  • Pain that worsens when swallowing solid food (dysphagia).
  • Hoarseness and hoarseness of the voice (dysphonia), up to its complete absence (aphonia).
  • Dry hacking cough (“barking”).
  • Discharge of viscous mucopurulent sputum.
  • Temperature increase.
  • Malaise and general weakness.

During a medical examination using an ENT speculum or a laryngoscope, the reddened and swollen mucous membrane of the larynx is visible, the vocal folds are thickened and do not close completely. Even when only marginal hyperemia of the vocal cords is present, acute laryngitis (limited form) is diagnosed. Regional lymph nodes (mandibular, cervical) are palpated enlarged, densely elastic and painful. If the pathology occurs against the background of a respiratory viral infection, then there will be other symptoms: both local (nasal discharge, sneezing) and general (intoxication syndrome).

Phlegmonous or purulent laryngitis is accompanied by a sharp increase in sore throat and a significant deterioration in general condition (high temperature). During laryngoscopy, infiltration is detected in any area. If a yellow spot is visible in its center, then we can talk about the formation of an abscess. Most often it forms in the area of ​​the epiglottis or arytenoid cartilages.

False croup (stenosing laryngitis) appears due to acute infection of the upper respiratory tract. Against the background of its usual symptoms - runny nose, cough, sore throat, low-grade fever - a sudden attack of difficulty breathing (choking) occurs. Most often this occurs at night and is accompanied by a “barking” cough, blueness or cyanosis of the facial skin. Due to swelling and spasm of the larynx, it is difficult for the child to inhale, i.e., inspiratory dyspnea develops. He takes a forced position: sitting, leaning his hands on the edge of the bed. Auxiliary muscles are involved in breathing, which is evident from the retraction of the intercostal spaces, supra- and subclavian zones, the jugular notch, and the epigastrium. This attack lasts up to 30 minutes, after which the child falls asleep again.

Acute laryngitis manifests itself with quite vivid symptoms caused by a violation of all functions of the larynx.

Additional diagnostics

The diagnosis of laryngitis in most cases is based on the results of a clinical examination: complaints, anamnesis, laryngoscopic signs. But often it is necessary to use additional research, for example, a blood test and a nasopharyngeal swab for flora. This will clarify the origin of the inflammatory process in the larynx.

Cases of acute laryngitis in children (false croup) require differential diagnosis with such a formidable infectious disease as diphtheria. It differs in that difficulty breathing does not occur due to swelling or spasm, but due to a mechanical obstacle - fibrinous films. In this case, the mucous membrane will be cyanotic in color, and toxic swelling of the neck is characteristic. With false croup, there will be no hoarseness of the voice, and diphtheria does not manifest itself as a “barking” cough. A dangerous diagnosis can be assumed based on the clinical and laryngoscopic picture, and confirmed based on the results of analysis of smears and films on the Leffler stick. And only when diphtheria is completely excluded, treatment of acute laryngitis can be carried out. Otherwise, the tactics will be completely different.

Treatment

Probably, the question of how to treat laryngitis is relevant for every patient. Therapeutic tactics are determined by the type and nature of the inflammatory process, its prevalence and concomitant conditions. The structure of treatment measures includes both general and more specific ones.

General recommendations

When acute laryngitis is diagnosed, treatment must be accompanied by compliance with certain rules. First of all, patients need a gentle voice regime. It involves complete silence until active inflammation subsides. Rest of the larynx is important during the first 5–7 days. To reduce the negative impact on the mucous membrane, you must also adhere to a diet. Dishes must be at the optimal temperature (hot and cold are contraindicated); it is not recommended to eat hot and spicy, salty and smoked foods. It is recommended to abstain from smoking and drinking alcohol while acute laryngitis is being treated. It is better to maintain relatively high humidity in the room.

For stenosing laryngitis in children, drinking plenty of alkaline fluids, such as milk or mineral waters, helps. Distractive procedures, such as foot baths or mustard plasters, are indicated as first aid. To suppress a hacking cough, you can induce a gag reflex by pressing on the root of the tongue with a spoon.

Medicines

The basis of therapeutic measures for laryngitis is the use of medications. Medicines are aimed at suppressing the inflammatory process and destroying the infectious factor. Even when laryngitis is acute, you can limit yourself to local forms of medication in the form of irrigation and inhalation. For this, the following groups of drugs are used:

  1. Antiseptics (Givalex, Faringosept).
  2. Antibacterial (Bioparox, Chlorophyllipt).
  3. Anti-inflammatory (Cameton, Proposol).

If laryngitis is purulent, then you will have to take medications with a systemic effect. Antibiotics, antiviral or antifungal - the necessary drug will be prescribed by the doctor, taking into account the cause of the inflammation. For dry cough and sticky sputum, mucolytics (ACC, Lazolvan) will help, and for false croup, antispasmodics (No-shpa) are indicated. Antihistamines (Suprastin, Tavegil) can relieve the allergic component, and glucocorticoids (hydrocortisone, dexamethasone) have an anti-edematous and powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Also, to activate the body's defenses, immunostimulants (Laferon, Taktivin) and vitamins are used.

Laryngitis is mainly treated with medication. Usually the drugs are taken in the form of local forms, and sometimes there is a need for systemic therapy.

Invasive treatment

In some cases, acute laryngitis must be treated using invasive techniques. If an abscess develops in the larynx, the abscess will still have to be opened. This is done by an ENT doctor as an emergency. Under local anesthesia, he opens the infiltrate and evacuates its contents. The cavity is washed with antiseptics. At the same time, detoxification and powerful antibacterial therapy are carried out, painkillers and antiallergic drugs are used.

If conservative treatment for false croup is not effective, and external respiratory distress increases, then the child is given tracheal intubation for several days. If necessary, a tracheostomy is even performed. The latter technique is also indicated for large processes in the larynx (including abscesses).

Almost anyone can experience acute laryngitis. This disease is characterized by damage to the mucous membrane of the larynx, has an inflammatory nature and manifests itself with quite clear clinical signs. But to avoid complications, you should seek medical help as soon as possible. The attending physician will diagnose and prescribe treatment for laryngitis, which will relieve the patient of acute inflammation.

Source: http://elaxsir.ru/zabolevaniya/laringit/laringit-ostryj.html

Laryngitis in adults - symptoms and treatment, what it is, photos, first signs of laryngitis

Laryngitis is a clinical syndrome of damage to the larynx caused by inflammatory changes in the mucous membrane due to the development of an infection of viral or bacterial etiology or other causes, manifesting itself in an acute or chronic form. Development is promoted by hypothermia, breathing through the mouth, dusty air, overstrain of the larynx, smoking and drinking alcohol.

The course of the disease depends on a number of conditions (age, body resistance, adequacy of therapy, etc.). How to treat laryngitis, what are the symptoms and first signs in adults, as well as the main methods of prevention - we will talk in more detail in this article.

What is laryngitis?

Laryngitis is a disease of the respiratory system that affects the mucous membrane of the larynx. In adults, the disease is accompanied by a change in voice, up to its complete loss, coughing, and breathing problems. It can occur independently or be a continuation of inflammation of the mucous membranes of the pharynx, nasopharynx or nasal cavity in cases of acute respiratory diseases.

The fact is that when we talk, our vocal cords begin to vibrate, which is why sound appears. But with this disease, the vocal cords swell and completely lose this unique property. At the same time, the airways also narrow, it becomes a little difficult to breathe; another characteristic of the disease may be the so-called barking cough.

It is important to realize in time that silence is golden in the literal sense of the word. It’s better to talk in a whisper for a few days than to suffer for many weeks later.

Types of disease

There are two forms of laryngitis: acute, which lasts only a few days, and chronic, which lasts for weeks or months.

Acute laryngitis

Acute laryngitis relatively rarely develops as an independent disease. Usually it is a symptom of ARVI (influenza, adenoviral infection, parainfluenza), in which the mucous membrane of the nose and pharynx, and sometimes the lower respiratory tract (bronchi, lungs) is also involved in the inflammatory process. Acute laryngitis can result from excessive strain on the vocal cords, such as shouting, greeting, singing, or giving speeches.

Chronic laryngitis in adults

The chronic form follows from an acute manifestation in the absence of treatment or becomes the result of infection from chronic sources of the pathogen (inflammatory diseases in the nasopharynx). It is often diagnosed in smokers, since tobacco smoke negatively affects the condition of the epithelial layer and leads to its depletion, as a result of which the mucous membrane becomes susceptible to the effects of negative factors.

The outcome of chronic laryngitis in adults depends on its form. With hypertrophic and atrophic chronic laryngitis, complete recovery does not occur. Prevention is aimed at eliminating causative factors.

Sometimes, due to the similarity of the clinical picture, this pathology is confused with pharyngitis, however, how to treat laryngitis in an adult and what to do with pharyngitis are very different. Therefore, you should not take any medications until your doctor makes an accurate diagnosis.

Also distinguished:

  • Catarrhal laryngitis - the patient has a sore throat, hoarseness, a feeling of rawness in the throat, an intermittent cough, dry and poorly expressed. The course is favorable and easy. Characteristic symptoms of laryngitis in adults: most often, patients complain of dysphonia, hoarseness, soreness, rawness and dryness in the throat at normal or subfebrile temperature. Sometimes a dry cough occurs, which is subsequently accompanied by expectoration of sputum.
  • The atrophic type of laryngitis is characterized by a decrease in the thickness of the mucous membrane. Given this feature, discharge with traces of blood is often noted in the cough. A characteristic sign is the formation of yellow-green or dirty brown crusts on the mucous membrane.
  • Allergic laryngitis occurs in a patient with an allergic reaction (allergic rhinitis, pharyngitis and others).
  • Hypertrophic laryngitis, in contrast to atrophic laryngitis, is characterized by thickening of the laryngeal mucosa. Excessively thickened areas of the larynx, in the form of whitish or transparent elevations, can become so large that they interfere with the closure of the vocal cords.
  • In the case of diphtheria, the development of the disease occurs due to the spread of infection into the larynx from the tonsils. The mucous membrane becomes covered with a white membrane, which can detach and cause blockage of the airways at the level of the vocal cords. A similar membrane can also form during streptococcal infection.

Causes of occurrence in adults

The causative agents of laryngitis are divided into two groups:

  • viruses (influenza virus, parainfluenza, measles and others);
  • bacteria (the causative agent of scarlet fever, diphtheria, whooping cough, streptococci, staphylococci, mycobacteria, treponema and others).

The main causes of laryngitis:

  • General and local hypothermia, eating irritating food (usually very cold), cold drinking, mouth breathing, excessive vocal stress (long, loud conversation, singing, screaming) - all this leads to disruption of local defense systems, damage to the cellular structures of the mucous membrane and the development of inflammatory process. In the future, infection may occur.
  • Contacts with patients with whooping cough, chicken pox, influenza or other acute respiratory viral infections. The incubation period for laryngitis of infectious origin can range from several hours to several days, depending on the pathogen.
  • The spread of infections from the paranasal sinuses during sinusitis, the oral cavity and other nearby areas.
  • Inhalation of various irritants - air contaminated with dust, soot, chemicals.
  • Constant or one-time strong tension of the vocal cords - prolonged loud conversation, as well as screaming, especially in the case of unfavorable conditions indicated in the previous paragraph.
  • Damage to the surface of the mucous membrane of the larynx - surgical intervention, mechanical (fish bone, attempt to swallow poorly chewed food, crackers).
  • Alcohol abuse, smoking.
  • Laryngitis can develop if stomach contents enter the larynx (gastroesophageal reflux). This condition can develop in case of weakness of the esophageal sphincters, which normally prevent gastric contents from entering the esophagus, pharynx, and larynx.

Symptoms of laryngitis

Signs of inflammation of the larynx in adults can be suspected independently. The following symptoms may indicate the development of laryngitis:

  • The appearance of a dry cough;
  • Hoarseness of voice;
  • Sore and sore throat;
  • Severe pain when swallowing;
  • General malaise;
  • Increase in body temperature;
  • Increased number of leukocytes in the blood.

Laryngitis in adults usually lasts from several days to 2 weeks. Usually, after 2-3 days, body temperature normalizes and overall health improves. Then the voice is restored and gradually the dry cough turns into a wet one and stops.

Throat in the photo with laryngitis

In the first seven to ten days, the disease has an acute course. If the inflammatory process lasts longer, then doctors diagnose chronic laryngitis.

  • First, a person’s general health deteriorates, headache and weakness appear.
  • Performance drops sharply, constant drowsiness occurs.
  • At the same time, the temperature may rise, but this does not always happen, and the thermometer rarely rises above subfebrile levels. Typically, the temperature during laryngitis ranges from 37.0° to 37.5°.
  • there is a sore throat that gets worse when swallowing, coughing and trying to talk;
  • dry cough in the form of attacks with scanty sputum;
  • runny nose and nasal congestion.
  • hoarse voice;
  • severe sore throat;
  • cough;
  • swelling and hyperemia of the mucous membrane.

Complications

The most common complication of laryngitis is chronic bronchitis and tonsillitis. Often in the acute phase there is a danger of developing laryngeal edema and the occurrence of false croup. In this condition, the person begins to choke, the skin turns pale, and the nasolabial triangle becomes blue. If a person in this condition is not given immediate assistance, he may die.

Chronic laryngitis can also lead to complications such as:

  • benign tumor formation in the larynx;
  • proliferation of polyps, formation of cysts or granulomas;
  • development of laryngeal cancer;
  • laryngeal stenosis;
  • impaired mobility of the larynx.

Diagnostics

Determination of symptoms and treatment of laryngitis in adults should be under the supervision of a physician.

During the diagnostic process, the doctor initially examines the medical history, conducts a physical examination and interviews the patient about the nature of the onset and development of the disease. A thorough examination of the sound of the voice, as well as the vocal cords, helps to select the right approach to treating the disease.

In addition to a general medical examination, the doctor may also use additional research methods, especially in case of chronic laryngitis or protracted acute laryngitis:

  • laryngoscopy;
  • blood analysis;
  • fluorography of a difficult cell;
  • bacteriological examination of swabs, smears from the larynx, etc.

A person who does not have a medical education can diagnose laryngitis on his own, but the likelihood of an error is very high. Although the pathology has characteristic symptoms, in some cases it can take a “blurred” course. Some signs may be completely absent.

You should contact an otolaryngologist if:

  • Your symptoms do not improve within 2 weeks;
  • You have sudden severe pain (especially radiating to the ear), difficulty swallowing, or coughing up blood;
  • Suspect another disease;
  • There is a suspicion that laryngitis may become chronic.

Treatment of laryngitis in adults

Treatment of laryngitis involves following a gentle regimen (the patient requires rest) and eliminating factors that can increase inflammation (quitting smoking, spicy, cold and hot foods).

General treatment plan:

  • elimination of possible causes - reducing stress on the larynx and vocal cords (silence);
  • exclusion of foods that irritate the mucous membrane - carbonated drinks, salty, spicy foods;
  • complete cessation of smoking, drinking alcoholic beverages, including beer and alcoholic cocktails;
  • plenty of warm drinks - teas, infusions, decoctions, milk, jelly, juices.

If laryngitis has developed, treatment in adults can be carried out by prescribing the following drugs for local and systemic therapy:

  • external medications for basic treatment: aerosols - Camphomen, Ingalipt, Tera-Flu; lozenges and absorbable tablets - Isla, Strepsils, Neo-Angin;
  • providing expectoration: Mucaltin, Prospan, Gedelix, Eucabal, Gerbion;
  • medications that can alleviate cough: Cofex, Sinekod;
  • antiallergic drugs (antihistamines): Loratadine, Zodak, Suprastin;
  • antibacterial antibiotic: Bioparox spray;
  • targeted antibiotics: Ampicillin, Amoxicillin, Oxacillin and cephalosporins;
  • antiviral drugs: Fusafungin, Fenspiride;
  • improving immune defense and strengthening the body - compositions based on radiola, aralia, pantocrine, eleutherococcus.

Antibacterial drugs (antibiotics) are prescribed for laryngitis only if the bacterial nature of the pathology is confirmed. To do this, a bacterial culture is performed and the causative agent of the infection is identified. If this is not done, treatment may be ineffective due to the lack of sensitivity of some strains of bacteria to certain types of antibiotics.

The use of physiotherapeutic methods of treatment gives good results. The following procedures may be prescribed to adult patients:

How to treat acute laryngitis?

In adults, treatment of acute laryngitis should primarily be aimed at eliminating the problem that provoked the disease.

  • Local antibacterial drugs are used in the form of lozenges, aerosols, sprays, such as Strepsils, Hexoral, Tantum Verde, etc.
  • For severe sore throat, NSAIDs are prescribed - non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Nimesil, Nise, Nurofen. They effectively eliminate all symptoms associated with inflammation - pain, voice disturbance, etc.
  • To stimulate the activity of metabolic processes and increase the activity of the immune system, adaptogens are prescribed (tinctures of Eleutherococcus, pantocrine, ginseng, rosea radiola).
  • An excellent remedy for laryngitis is lubricating the throat with Lugol's solution. This remedy helps protect the mucous membrane of the larynx from the effects of pathogenic flora. On the 3-4th day of illness, you can replace the lubrication with Lugol's solution with sea buckthorn oil. This substance promotes rapid restoration of the mucous membrane.

To ensure complete rest of the larynx, a person is not recommended to talk for about a week. If this is not possible, you need to speak as quietly and softly as possible.

Until the mucous membrane of the larynx is restored, the doctor must prescribe a strict diet, during which only gentle food should be consumed. However, it should not be too cold or hot.

An exact list of medications and recommendations for their use, as well as the advisability of inhalations, is given to the patient by the attending physician. Subject to compliance with the prescribed therapy, the patient returns to normal within 10 days.

How to treat chronic laryngitis in adults?

It is almost impossible to completely get rid of the chronic form of laryngitis, but it is possible to achieve remission and reduce its manifestations to a minimum. It is worth noting that with a particularly pronounced inflammatory process and the development of complications, hospital treatment may be required. When treating exacerbations of chronic laryngitis, special attention should be paid to the treatment of chronic infections that contribute to this exacerbation.

Its course for too long can disrupt vocal function and completely change the patient’s voice. And people suffering from chronic laryngitis are at risk for laryngeal cancer. Therefore, this disease must be treated comprehensively and until complete recovery.

For adults, laryngitis therapy will consist of the following procedures:

  • Taking medications and vitamins;
  • Alkaline and antibiotic inhalations;
  • Physiotherapy;
  • Traditional medicine methods.

Non-drug methods are of great importance in the treatment of chronic inflammation of the larynx:

  • to give up smoking;
  • voice rest;
  • gentle nutrition (warm, soft, neutral-tasting food, exclusion of spicy, hot and cold foods, carbonated drinks);
  • drink plenty of fluids (alkaline mineral waters (Naftusya, Borjomi), warm milk with honey);
  • prevention of hypothermia;
  • ventilate the room in which the patient lives for 10 minutes every hour;
  • adequate microclimate (temperature and humidity) in the room.

Inhalations

Inhalation is effective for laryngitis. It is better if it is an ultrasonic inhaler, and the patient will breathe with an infusion of medicinal herbs, such as chamomile.

Inhalation therapy can be using steam inhalations with herbs (chamomile, oregano, sage and others), potato steam, alkaline inhalations. This can be inhalation using a nebulizer (with mineral water or medications prescribed by a doctor). Inhalations are carried out from 3 to 7 times a day.

But know that steam inhalations cannot be performed in the following cases:

  • at elevated temperatures,
  • with purulent processes in the nasopharynx,
  • intolerance to drugs used for inhalation,
  • adults with exacerbation of bronchial asthma and other breathing disorders,
  • tendency to nosebleeds,

Nutrition

Proper therapy means an integrated approach to treating the disease; drug treatment cannot be used exclusively. It is important to follow a certain diet. For laryngitis, adults are strictly prohibited from consuming:

  • all alcoholic drinks;
  • sparkling water;
  • seeds, nuts;
  • garlic, pepper, mustard, onion, horseradish;
  • seasonings, spices, herbs.

Food should be liquid or pureed, not too hot and not cold. It is advisable to exclude fried and fatty foods, and steam meat and fish.

Vegetable oils, which can be dropped a few drops into the nose or lubricated with them in the throat, will help in the fight against inflammation and irritation of the larynx. Fresh fruits, vegetables, and juices will be of great benefit in the treatment of laryngitis, but they should be eaten in pureed form.

Drinking for laryngitis should be warm (not hot) and quite plentiful. All products should be taken in small sips. Borjomi, milk and sage will help cope with the disease.

Folk remedies

Before using folk remedies for laryngitis, it is recommended to consult with your doctor.

  1. At the first manifestations of laryngitis, it is advisable to drink more warm drinks. Tea should be decaffeinated, as caffeine has a dehydrating effect.
  2. Two teaspoons of calamus are poured into a glass of boiling water, infused for 5 hours, used for gargling. 3 teaspoons of chopped onion peel are poured into 0.5 liters of water, allowed to boil and infused for 4 hours, filtered and used for gargling.
  3. To treat laryngitis at home, gargling with blueberry decoctions, beet juice and homemade apple cider vinegar solution are excellent. In case of false croup, the child is recommended to take hot foot baths (the duration of the procedure is 3-5 minutes).
  4. Gogol-mogol. To prepare, beat two yolks with a tablespoon of sugar, then add a tablespoon of melted butter and mix thoroughly. It is believed that using this remedy for 4-5 days twice a day helps restore your voice.
  5. For laryngitis, adults are recommended to use the following recipe: boil 3 finely chopped carrots in 1 liter of milk until tender; the broth can be rinsed and taken orally.
  6. Add egg white to 100 ml of vegetable oil and mix thoroughly. Drink in small sips throughout the day.
  7. Vitamin teas from linden, rowan, black elderberry, which can be drunk twice a day. Frozen viburnum is irreplaceable, which is also added to tea or eaten in its pure form.
  8. Another good folk remedy is tea with ginger and honey - the root is grated on a fine grater and added to tea, about 2 teaspoons of freshly grated ginger per 200 ml of boiling water, we eat honey, but only as a taste, do not add it to boiling water.

When treating, and especially at home, it is important to listen to your body! If you feel significant discomfort and worsening laryngitis symptoms, it is better not to tempt fate and change the treatment method to a more proven one.

Prevention of laryngitis

Prevention of laryngitis in adults involves preventing factors leading to the development of the disease.

  • Remember that even some drugs can cause drying out of the mucous membrane, so read the instructions before drinking.
  • Timely treatment of colds and chronic bacterial outbreaks.
  • If an acute respiratory infection or acute respiratory viral infection occurs, adherence to the regime (home regimen, warm plenty of fluids, sparing the voice - speak quietly or whisper, do not be nervous, do not walk, avoid physical activity).
  • Fight against bad habits (smoking, alcohol).
  • You should also not forget about simple things, such as wet cleaning of premises: dust is the primary thing that can irritate absolutely any mucous membrane.
  • Sports activities.

Laryngitis is not a serious disease, but advanced cases sometimes require surgical intervention. To prevent this, it must be treated promptly and completely. To do this, we recommend that you contact an otolaryngologist at the first sign.

Discussion: 2 comments

I work as educators and what I take for myself and recommend to children is Homeovox, a natural remedy that helps restore your voice very quickly!

And I have a problem with drafts at work. My hot colleagues always open the windows, but I am sensitive and any draft is always a problem for me. Just a week ago they decided to ventilate it and it blew through me. I left work with a sore throat, and in the morning without a voice. Grammidin lozenges with a red scarf saved me. After two days, thank God my voice returned.

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