Brief Answer:
Questions so that I can help:

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome,

As you know, laryngitis is caused by inflammation of the larynx (vocal chords).

This can be caused by a number of things, including drainage from an upper respiratory viral infection, sinusitis, or allergies.

It can also be caused by acid coming up (even if you don't feel this happening) from the stomach and irritating the throat and it's structures.

In addition, particularly if there is a history of tobacco use, it can be caused by inflammation or growths from that.

These are more common causes.

I can try to help sort this out and advise how you should proceed, but first I'll need more information.

1. What other symptoms are you having? Fevers, fatigue, etc.
2. Is there drainage down your throat that your feel?
3. Does your throat burn?
4. Any history of stomach problems?
5. Smoker or chew tobacco?
6. History of allergies?

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Brief Answer:
Information

Detailed Answer:
Thanks for the additional information.

This brings more questions such as how long have you had these symptoms, how high are your fevers, and is your asthma being exacerbated right now?

But I'll tell you what I can from the information I now have:

It sounds as though you have a respiratory illness. Most are caused by viruses. If the fever is high (over 100.3) and has being going on for more than a few days, or if what you are coughing up is discolored, and not just when you get up, or if your asthma is not under good control, then I strongly advise that you go in to be seen in person, where they can have a look in your throat and if warranted, do a chest X-ray.

A decongestant such as pseudo ephedrine can help with the drainage going down the throat, which is making the laryngitis worse. But do not take if you have high blood pressure or urinary retention/prostate problems. Pseudo ephedrine helps dry up the drainage, but does not stop the underlying problem, which needs your immune system to take care of the viral infection. Pseudoephedrine is only sold behind the counter - not on the regular shelves in the drug store. But it does not require a prescription.

You can also take guaifenesin (Mucinex) which is a safe mucolytic. It thins the secretions so that you can pass them more easily. It requires you to drink a lot of water for it to work. You can take guaifenesin with the pseudoephedrine - they are compatible.

The moisture from the shower is likely helping because of the moisture.

If you have a course, seal-bark sounding cough, it may be croup (yes, even adults can sometimes get this) and cool moist air can help, such as if it is cool outside at night where you live. If so, bundle up and step outside for a while (but don't get yourself chilled).

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Brief Answer:
Information

Detailed Answer:
Alright, if your asthma has not been exacerbated, you can wait a few days and try the non-prescription medications I mentioned. Drink lots of water too.

I hope you are feeling better soon!

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Brief Answer:
Your Welcome

Detailed Answer:
Your welcome!

Best regards,
Bonnie Berger-Durnbaugh, MD

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