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What Causes Scratchy Throat And Loss Of Voice?
Question: I suddenly felt a scratchy throat about 5pm on Friday and by about 7pm, I had no voice. I did not feel any body issues like flu like symptoms but the next day, Saturday, I did see a private doctor. He took a throat sample and said I had Strep Throat. He gave me an cephalexin injection and 24 to take 3 x a day. I've had several sweat sessions but my throat does not seem to get any better. How long before my voice returns? What can I expect? Help.
Brief Answer:
Acute Laryngitis.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. This is an acute laryngitis.
2. It should resolve in a week or two with gradual improvement.
3. Voice rest, medicated oral rinse, steam inhalation, adequate hydration (fluids), anti-allergic, mild anti-inflammatory and anti-reflux medication should speed up recovery.
4. If you can repeat the throat swab after a few days and if it is negative for Strep throat, a short course of steroids will help.
5. If it last for more than 2 weeks, get a Videolaryngoscopy (VL'Scopy) done.
6. In most cases, with voice rest and supportive treatment, it is self limiting and resolves.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Acute Laryngitis.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. This is an acute laryngitis.
2. It should resolve in a week or two with gradual improvement.
3. Voice rest, medicated oral rinse, steam inhalation, adequate hydration (fluids), anti-allergic, mild anti-inflammatory and anti-reflux medication should speed up recovery.
4. If you can repeat the throat swab after a few days and if it is negative for Strep throat, a short course of steroids will help.
5. If it last for more than 2 weeks, get a Videolaryngoscopy (VL'Scopy) done.
6. In most cases, with voice rest and supportive treatment, it is self limiting and resolves.
I hope that I have answered your query. If you have any more questions I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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