Rest Your Voice
One of the best ways to treat laryngitis is by resting your voice. Talking excessively can strain the vocal cords and cause them to become inflamed, leading to laryngitis. So, if you have laryngitis, avoid talking as much as possible. It’s best to opt for non-verbal communication such as writing or texting. If you must talk, try to speak in a soft and gentle tone to avoid further strain on the voice box.
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Drinking fluids can help treat laryngitis. Fluids help to moisturize the throat and reduce irritation. Drinking water, juices, and herbal teas can be beneficial. Try to avoid drinks that contain caffeine or alcohol as they can cause dehydration and worsen laryngitis symptoms.
Use a Humidifier
Using a humidifier can help soothe the throat and relieve symptoms of laryngitis. A humidifier adds moisture to the air, which can help calm the irritated vocal cords. It is advisable to use a cool-mist humidifier as it is more effective in treating laryngitis.
Gargle Salt Water
Gargling salt water is another effective way to treat laryngitis. Saltwater helps to reduce inflammation and ease throat irritation. Mix a teaspoon of salt with warm water and gargle several times a day. Spit the salt water out after gargling and avoid swallowing it.
Take Over-the-Counter Medications
Over-the-counter medications can help relieve the symptoms of laryngitis. Pain relievers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce pain, fever, and inflammation. Cough suppressants can also help suppress a cough and soothe the throat.
Avoid Smoking
Smoking can worsen laryngitis symptoms as it irritates the throat and vocal cords. If you smoke, it is advisable to quit smoking to ensure a speedy recovery from laryngitis. Even exposure to second-hand smoke can worsen the condition, so it may be best to avoid places where smoking takes place.
Avoid Talking Loudly or Singing
If you have laryngitis, it is essential to avoid talking loudly or singing as this can cause further irritation to the already inflamed vocal cords. It is best to wait until the condition has fully healed before resuming activities that require the use of the voice box.
Conclusion
Laryngitis is a common respiratory condition that can cause discomfort and inconvenience. Fortunately, it can be treated using various methods. Resting your voice, drinking fluids, using a humidifier, gargling salt water, taking over-the-counter medications, avoiding smoking, and avoiding talking loudly or singing are some of the top ways to treat laryngitis. However, if the condition persists for more than two weeks, it is advisable to consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment.