This document discusses laryngitis, an inflammation of the larynx. It defines acute and chronic laryngitis, with acute lasting less than a few days and chronic lasting more than 3 weeks. Common causes include viral and bacterial infections, vocal misuse, inhaled irritants, acid reflux, smoking, and excessive alcohol use. Symptoms may include hoarseness, sore throat, difficulty swallowing, and cough. Diagnosis involves medical history, physical exam, imaging, and biopsy. Treatment focuses on vocal rest, hydration, antibiotics, steroids, mucolytics, humidification, and surgery in severe cases. Nursing care includes assessment, education on causes and treatment, encouraging vocal rest and hydration, and monitoring

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SUBJECT – MEDICALAND SURGICAL NURSING
TOPIC – LARYNGITIS
PREPARED BY DOLISHA WARBI

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LARYNGITIS
It is the inflammation of larynx leading to laryngeal oedema of laryngeal mucosa and underlying
structure.
OR
An inflammatory process in the mucosa of the vocal chords and larynx.
TYPES
a) Acute laryngitis
b) Chronic laryngitis
a) Acute laryngitis: It is the acute inflammation of larynx which last less than a few days and leads to
oedema of laryngeal mucosa and underlying structure.
Most common cause is “rhino virus” others by adenovirus,measels and mumps para influenza virus.
BACTERIAL INFECTION such as diptheria .
Overuse of voice e.g. yelling , exposure to noxious that causes cold.

3. b) Chronic laryngitis : laryngitis that last more than 3 weeks is known as chronic laryngitis.
It is more persistent disorder that produces hoarseness and other voice changes.
It is painless and no signs of infection.
CAUSES
• Vocal misuse
• Exposure to noxious agent
• Infectious agent – Viral and Bacterial
• Inhaled irritants – Chemical fumes, allergens or smoking
• Acid reflux (GERD)
• Smoking
• Excessive alcohol use
• Chronic bronchitis
• Cancer
• Injury tumor
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4. SYMPTOMS:
• Hoarseness
• A low raspy voice, voice loss
• Tickling sensation and rawness in throat
• “breaks or cracks” voice
• Sensation of lumps in the throat , sore throat
• Difficulty in swallowing
• Cold or flu like symptoms
• Fever
• Swollen lymph nodes in the neck
• A constant urge to clear the throat
• Heavy mucus in throat
• Chronic cough
• Dysphagia
• Difficulty in breathing
• Feeling of fullness in throat
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5. DIAGNOSIS:
• History collection, physical education
• X-ray of neck or chest
• CBC ( complete blood count)
• Laryngoscopy
• Biopsy
MANAGEMENT:
• Resting the voice
• Eliminating smoking and avoiding drinking alcohol
• Antibiotics
• In severe cases steroids – Methylprednisolone
• Mucolytic agents ( mobilize mucus)
• Menthol inhalation ( humidifies)
• Voice Rehabilitation
• Increase intake of fluids
• Short course of steroids e.g. Prednisone, Dexamethosone
• H2 blockers – Zantac (4-6 weeks)
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6. SURGICAL MANAGEMENT
Micro- laryngoscope dissection
Laser –assisted dissection
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7. NURSING MANAGEMENTS:
ØConduct a thorough assessment of the patient's medical history, including any recent upper
respiratory infections or exposure to irritants.
ØEvaluate the severity of symptoms, including the degree of hoarseness, difficulty in breathing,
and any associated pain.
ØEducate the patient about the nature of laryngitis, its causes, and the importance of vocal rest.
ØInstruct the patient to avoid irritants such as smoke, strong odors, and excessive talking or
whispering.
ØEncourage hydration to keep the vocal cords moist.
ØAdvise the patient to limit or avoid talking, whispering, or shouting.
ØEncourage the patient to drink plenty of fluids to maintain hydration and keep the mucous
membranes moist.
ØWarm saline gargles or throat lozenges may provide relief and help soothe the irritated throat.
ØHumidification to prevent further irritation.
ØAdminister over-the-counter pain relievers, such as acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-
inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), as a pain reliever.
ØMonitor the respiratory pattern of the patient.
ØSpeech Therapy
ØPrevention of Complications
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