Laryngitis results in an inflammation of the larynx. Since this pathology affects the vocal cords, it leads to an alteration of the voice and sometimes breathing difficulties. Most often caused by viruses, laryngitis can also be of bacterial or allergic origin. Laryngitis can also be caused by a sudden change in temperature due to air conditioning or a cold damp atmosphere that is not easily tolerated. All factors likely to alter the air can also cause this condition. These include pollution, smoke, dust, etc.. Alcohol and tobacco are also factors that are conducive to the development of laryngitis.
Those most prone to laryngitis are children between the ages of 1 and 6. Furthermore, when they fall victim to this disease, these patients must be closely monitored, especially in case of breathing difficulties. In addition, individuals suffering from chronic ENT infections are often more likely to develop laryngitis. The same applies to those who use their voice a lot, as is the case of speakers and singers.
Laryngitis is characterized by a sore throat of varying intensity, accompanied by a hoarse cough that occurs suddenly and violently. A sore throat often results in swallowing difficulties. In addition, inflammation can make the voice hoarse or extinct. Coughing is usually dry and is especially frequent during the night. It can lead to breathing difficulties and cyanosis, a condition that causes the lips to take on a blueish colour. In the more severe cases, an inflammation of the larynx prevents the passage of air and can result in asphyxiation.
Given that it can effectively treat tracheitis, Bryonia is also indicated in the treatment of laryngitis that is accompanied by a dry cough. Another remedy that can be used is Drosera, which targets chest pain and nocturnal coughing fits. In case of tingling sensations in the larynx, it is advisable to take Rumex crispus, whereas Sticta pulmonaria is recommended for stuffy noses. As for Bromium, it is effective in treating laryngitis that is accompanied by sensations of suffocation. Finally, Kalium bichrimicum is recommended if the patient needs to evacuate a substantial amount of mucus.
Argentum metallicum is recommended in case of loss of voice, especially among people who use their vocal chords a lot. To treat laryngitis that is accompanied by a cough and a hoarse voice, it is recommended to let Cansticum 4 CH melt under the tongue if the hoarseness is due to a cold, or Spongia 5 CH in case of chronic laryngitis that ias accompanied by a dry throat. Moreover, Spongia 7 CH and Drosera 7 CH are also good remedies in case of hoarseness with dry mucous membranes.
Two homoeopathic drugs are particularly well-suited to treat laryngitis in children, namely Sambucus niger in case of severe and sudden laryngitis and Spongia Tosta for acute laryngitis that especially worsens at night and that is accompanied by a sensation of suffocation.
The use of Sambucus nigra is advised in case of coughing, stuffy nose and heavy perspiration upon awakening. On the other hand, an Arum-triphyllum-based cure is recommended if the inflammation is very acute and if the lips are dry and bleeding.
Laryngitis in adults should subside after a few days of treatment and rest. Consultation with an ENT specialist becomes necessary when the symptoms do not improve after 2 to 3 weeks, or when the disease is accompanied by a fever. In regard to children, it is advisable to consult a doctor as soon as the symptoms appear, especially if the young patient experiences swallowing or breathing difficulties, if he or she has a fever over 38 °, if breathing is accompanied by whistling sounds or in case of substantial salivation. A medical consultation is also necessary if the child refuses to eat or drink, or seems to be agitated or very tired.
Note that a child under 6 months old who suffers from laryngitis should be quickly examined by an ENT specialist. A consultation is also urgent if, in addition to this condition, the child also suffers from a chronic or heart disease.
• Aconitum Napellus
• Arum Triphyllum
• Belladonna
• Bromum
• Causticum
• Drosera Rotundifolia
• Ferrum Phosphoricum
• Hepar Sulfuris Calcareum
• Iodum
• Manganum Aceticum
• Manganum Metallicum
• Phosphorus
• Rumex Crispus
• Sambucus Nigra
• Spongia Tosta
• Dysphonia
• Pharyngitis
• Rhinopharyngitis
Good to know: Homoeopathy provides remedies that are well-suited to laryngitis’ different symptoms, regardless of whether the condition is acute or chronic. Specific treatments may be indicated, notably regarding children and severe forms of the disesase accompanied by intense pain and suffocation.
