What Causes Laryngitis?

Bacterial Infections

Infections and swelling causing laryngitis can also be a result of bacteria, such as those that cause respiratory infections, like diphtheria, strep throat, or pneumonia. These serious bacterial infections are less frequent in a majority of countries as individuals are regularly vaccinated against them. Bacterial laryngitis is much more contagious than the viral kind and is generally associated with more severe symptoms, such as fever, difficulty swallowing, cough, headache, and swollen glands. Bacterial infections are best treated by a doctor and usually respond well to antibiotics. If individuals are not sure if their infection is viral or bacterial, it's best to let a doctor make the determination. If a patient's laryngitis is severe enough that they have difficulty swallowing or breathing, they should see a doctor as soon as possible.

Keep reading to learn how an individual's voice can cause this infection to occur.