Laryngitis occurs when your voice box or vocal cords become inflamed and swollen from overuse, irritation, or infection. Laryngitis can be acute (short-term), lasting less than three weeks or it can be chronic (long-term), lasting more than three weeks. Depending on the degree of swelling, the voice may become mildly hoarse, turn into a croak or whisper or even disappear temporarily. Acute laryngitis is a temporary condition that is caused by an infection. Treating the underlying condition causes the laryngitis to go away. Acute laryngitis can be caused by viral infections, straining your vocal cords by talking or yelling, bacterial infections, and/or drinking too much alcohol. Chronic laryngitis results from long-term exposure to irritants and is more severe and has longer-lasting effects than acute laryngitis. Chronic laryngitis can be caused by frequent exposure to harmful chemicals or allergens, acid reflux, frequent sinus infections, smoking or being around smokers, overusing your voice, and/or low-grade yeast infections caused by frequent use of an asthma inhaler. The most common symptoms of laryngitis include a weakened voice, loss of voice, hoarse or dry throat, constant tickling or minor throat irritation, and/or a dry cough. If you would like to find out more and receive a second opinion regarding your diagnosis and treatment, please contact us at secondopinions.com, for your peace of mind.