Laryngitis

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx. It causes hoarse voice or the complete loss of the voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal cords).

Laryngitis is categorized as acute if it lasts less than a few days. Otherwise it is categorized as chronic, and may last over 3 weeks.

Correct treatment depends on a correct diagnosis of the underlying cause of laryngitis. The most prevalent cause of a missed diagnosis of laryngeal cancer is a belief that persistent hoarseness is due to laryngitis.citation needed] Should hoarseness last for more than 3 weeks, one should consult an otolaryngologist (ear, nose, and throat physician) for an examination including direct visualization of the vocal cords. This examination may also detect the presence of vocal cord nodules, a structural change resulting in persistent hoarseness or loss of voice.