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Throat anatomy

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Laryngitis

Treatment: Because most common laryngitis is caused by a virus, treatment with antibiotics may not help. Your health care provider will make this decision. Voice rest helps by reducing the inflammation of the vocal cords. A humidifier may soothe the scratchy feeling that comes with laryngitis. Decongestants and pain killers may relieve symptoms of an upper respiratory infection, if present. Expectations (prognosis): Text Continues Below Full recovery is expected in laryngitis that is not caused by a serious condition. Complications: Rarely, severe respiratory distress may develop, which will require medical attention. Calling your health care provider: Call your health care provider if there is difficulty in breathing, swallowing, or if drooling is present in a small child who is not teething. Call your health care provider if hoarseness is present in a child less than 3 months old. Call your health care provider if hoarseness has lasted for more than 1 week in a child or 2 weeks in an adult.

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