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What Is the Treatment for a Swollen Larynx?

Mary McMahon
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Updated: May 17, 2024
Views: 32,882
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The most appropriate treatment for a swollen larynx can range from simple rest to see whether the patient recovers independently to surgery to treat a vocal cord disorder. Patients who notice swelling and symptoms such as hoarseness, difficulty swallowing and coughing might want to see a doctor to discuss the situation and explore possible treatment options. Any case of what appears to be a sore throat or hoarseness that persists for more than a week is a potential cause for concern, and in cases of persistent symptoms, it is important for the patient to see a doctor to make sure that the issue is addressed in a timely fashion.

Patients can develop swelling in the larynx because of infection, irritation, cancer and lesions such as polyps or ulcers caused by severe acid reflux. When a patient goes to the doctor with a swollen larynx, the doctor might conduct a physical examination and could look into the throat to see whether any likely cause is visible. The initial recommendation might be to rest, drink fluids and avoid using his or her voice, to see whether the swelling goes down. If this does not work, or if the doctor suspects that it wouldn't help, more aggressive treatment might be necessary.

In the case of an infection, antibiotics might be provided if bacteria are responsible for the swollen larynx. Anti-inflammatory drugs, including medications that the patient can buy at the drugstore, can help reduce the swelling and make the patient feel more comfortable. The doctor might also recommend continuing to hydrate and using a humidifier to increase the humidity in the air. This can keep the larynx hydrated and ease swelling and dryness. It also might cut down on mucus production.

If the cause can be treated surgically, the doctor might discuss some surgical treatment options for a swollen larynx. Growths such as polyps need to be removed, and the patient might need treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation if the growths are cancerous. The doctor might recommend surgery to address other vocal cord and larynx disorders. An ear, nose and throat specialist typically evaluates the patient to determine the best course of action to address the problem.

After a patient receives treatment for a swollen larynx, a recovery period might be necessary. Rest can give the throat a chance to heal, and people who use their voices professionally might need to take some time off from work. A speech-language pathologist can help patients during recovery as they rebuild vocal strength and relearn to speak, if necessary. Some surgeries might change the structure of the larynx, so patients might need an adjustment period to get used to speaking and to acquire greater vocal control.

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Mary McMahon
By Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a WiseGeek researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

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Discussion Comments
By Laotionne — On Aug 13, 2014

Don't make the mistake of assuming that chronic sore throats and other throat illnesses are the result of too much screaming, yelling or singing. Before you start relying on online cures for sore throats, see a doctor and make sure that you don't have a more serious condition.

Sore throats and swollen glands are especially a big concern for smokers, who are more likely to have some type of mouth cancer.

By Sporkasia — On Aug 12, 2014
Mouth and throat pain can be the worst. One of the worst symptoms of colds and flu has to be the sore throat. My throat gets so sore that swallowing is extremely painful and coughing is even worse.

I have found that a good way to soothe the pain from throat problems is to mix honey in tea and drink that several times a day. This helps relieve the pain and the taste is good, too. Rinsing your mouth and throat with salt water is good for a swollen larynx. People have been doing this for ages.

By Laotionne — On Aug 11, 2014

People should take better care of their voices and vocal cords. We had a coach in high school and he was often hoarse from yelling at his players. He coached football, basketball and baseball and he screamed no matter which sport was taking place.

He eventually had to have surgery on his vocal cords. Screaming and constantly straining your voice can lead to serious problems. The sad thing is that his problems could have avoided if he had simply stopped yelling so much.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a...

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