Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx. It causes hoarse voice or the complete loss of the voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal cords). Laryngitis is categorized as acute if it lasts less than a few days. Otherwise it is categorized as chronic, and may last over 3 weeks.
Symptoms of laryngitis vary, depending on the severity and also the cause. The most common and obvious, symptom is impaired speech, ranging from a raspy hoarseness to the total loss of ability to speak, except at a whisper. Other symptoms can include: Dry, sore throat
Coughing, which can be a symptom of, or a factor in causing laryngitis; Difficulty swallowing;
Sensation of swelling in the area of the larynx;
Cold or flu-like symptoms (which, like a cough, may also be the causing factor for laryngitis;)
Swollen lymph glands in the throat, chest, or face; Fever
Difficulty breathing (mostly in children)
