How to Diagnose Laryngitis

You wake up after the big concert and open your mouth to speak, only to find that a frog has taken up residence in your throat. How do you make sure it's a common complaint like laryngitis and not something more serious? There are some telltale signs.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

1. Suspect laryngitis if your voice is hoarse. Your voice may be croaky, whispery, or gone altogether for a short while.
2. Decide if your throat is raw, a symptom of laryngitis.
3. Pay attention to the feeling that you need to clear your throat, another sign.
4. Think about whether you have allergies or a viral infection such as a cold or the flu.
5. See your doctor immediately if the laryngitis comes on suddenly without explanation, or if you have severe pain, difficulty swallowing or cough up blood.
6. Visit your physician if you still have symptoms after two weeks.

Tips & Warnings

• You probably already know that yelling or singing loudly can irritate the vocal cords and cause laryngitis, but did you know that whispering when you have laryngitis can also make it worse?