Laryngitis
Laryngitis is a common disorder that involves acute or chronic inflammation of the vocal cords. Acute laryngitis may occur as an isolated infection or as part of a generalized bacterial or viral upper respiratory tract infection. Repeated attacks of acute laryngitis cause inflammatory changes associated with chronic laryngitis.
Teaching Checklist: Managing reflux laryngitisTo prevent gastric reflux, which can lead to laryngitis, give the patient the following instructions:
Elevate the head of the bed (by elevating the mattress). Sleeping on additional pillows won’t be sufficient.
Avoid alcohol and coffee. Explain other dietary recommendations as needed.
Avoid eating for 3 to 4 hours before going to bed.
Take an antacid and a histamine-2 receptor antagonist as prescribed.
