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laryngitis
(lar″in-ji´tis)
inflammation of the mucous membrane of the larynx, characterized by dryness and soreness of the throat, hoarseness, cough, and difficulty swallowing. Acute laryngitis may be caused by overuse of the voice, allergies, irritating dust or smoke, hot or corrosive liquids, or
even violent weeping. After repeated attacks of the acute type, chronic laryngitis may develop, caused mostly by continual
irritation from overuse of the voice, tobacco smoke, dust, or chemical vapors, or by a chronic nasal or sinus disorder. Often
the moist mucous membrane lining the larynx becomes granulated. The granulation can proceed to thickening and hardening of the mucous membrane, which changes the voice or makes it hoarse.
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