Laryngitis is a common condition that affects the voice box, medically known as the larynx. This inflammation typically leads to changes in voice quality, often manifesting as hoarseness or, in some instances, a temporary loss of voice. When the vocal cords, located within the larynx, become swollen or irritated, their normal smooth vibration is disrupted, which distorts the sounds produced, making the voice sound weak, rough, or barely audible.
Understanding Laryngitis
Laryngitis, the inflammation of the larynx, can arise from various factors, some of which are infectious and others non-infectious. Infectious causes frequently include viral infections, such as those responsible for the common cold, the flu, or bronchitis. Less commonly, bacterial infections, like those caused by Streptococcus pneumoniae or Haemophilus influenzae, can lead to laryngitis, and in rare cases, fungal infections from organisms like Candida can also be responsible. Non-infectious causes, which do not spread from person to person, include vocal strain from overuse, acid reflux, allergies, or exposure to irritants like smoke or certain chemicals.
Transmission of Infectious Laryngitis
Only infectious forms of laryngitis, primarily those caused by viruses or bacteria, can spread between individuals. The main way these pathogens are transmitted is through respiratory droplets. These tiny droplets are expelled into the air when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or even talks, carrying the infectious agents. When these pathogen-laden droplets are inhaled by another person or land on surfaces that others touch, transmission can occur.
Direct contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, followed by touching one’s own eyes, nose, or mouth, provides another route for the infection to spread. Common viral culprits include rhinovirus, influenza virus, parainfluenza virus, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), and adenoviruses. Bacterial causes, though less frequent, can involve organisms like Staphylococcus aureus, including methicillin-sensitive (MSSA) and methicillin-resistant (MRSA) strains, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Laryngitis resulting from vocal strain, acid reflux, or environmental irritants is not contagious.
Preventing Laryngitis Transmission
Preventing the spread of infectious laryngitis involves several practical hygiene measures. Frequent and thorough hand washing with soap and water is highly effective in removing germs. If soap and water are unavailable, an alcohol-based hand sanitizer containing at least 60% alcohol can be used.
Avoiding touching the face, particularly the eyes, nose, and mouth, helps prevent the transfer of pathogens from hands to the respiratory system. Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue or into the elbow, rather than the hands, significantly reduces the release of infectious droplets into the air.
Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick and refrain from sharing personal items such as eating utensils, cups, or towels. Receiving vaccinations, such as the annual flu shot, can help prevent some of the underlying infections that may lead to laryngitis.