Laryngitis is swelling and inflammation of the larynx. It can be acute or chronic, although in most cases the condition is temporary and has no serious consequences.
The larynx, also referred to as the voice box, is home to the vocal cords. These are vital to the processes of breathing, swallowing, and talking. The vocal cords are two small folds of mucous membrane covering cartilage and muscle that vibrate to produce sound.
In a 2013 study of people in the United States (U.S.), 3.47 in every 1,000 people had a diagnosis of chronic laryngitis. It is thought that 21 percent of the population may develop chronic laryngitis in their lifetime.
Laryngitis is not often serious and in most cases resolves without treatment in around 7 days.
