Laryngitis, reflux
Inflammation of the larynx (voice box) caused by stomach acid backing up into the esophagus. Reflux laryngitis is associated with chronic hoarseness and symptoms of esophageal irritation such as heartburn, chest pain, asthma, or the feeling of a foreign body in the throat (the globus phenomenon). This can lead to chronic throat clearing, difficulty swallowing, cough, spasms of the vocal cords, and growths on the vocal cords (granulomas). Reflux also increases the risk of cancer of the esophagus and larynx. See also reflux.
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- Laryngomalacia
An abnormally soft, floppy larynx (voice box).
- Laryngoscope
A flexible, lighted tube that is used to examine the inside of the larynx (voice box).
- Laryngoscopist
The word “laryngoscope” was compounded from “laryngo-” + the Greek “skopeo,” to inspect = to inspect the larynx. The word “larynx” is a direct borrowing from the Greek for the upper part of the airway.
- Laryngoscopy
Examination of the larynx (voice box), either with a mirror (indirect laryngoscopy) or with a laryngoscope (direct laryngoscopy).
- Laryngostasis
More commonly known as croup, this is an infection of the larynx, trachea, and the bronchial tubes, that occurs mainly in children. It is usually caused by viruses, less often by bacteria. Symptoms include a cough that sounds like a barking seal and a harsh crowing sound during inhaling. Treatment may include moist air, salt […]