[27F] Experiencing cough, lost voice, and sore throat

What might be happening

Based on the symptoms you've provided, you may be experiencing one of the following conditions:

• Acute Laryngitis: This is inflammation of the voice box from overuse, irritation, or infection. It can cause a hoarse voice or loss of voice because of irritation to the vocal folds (vocal cords). Viruses are the most common cause of acute laryngitis.

  • Treatment typically involves resting your voice and staying hydrated. Over-the-counter pain medications can help manage discomfort. If a bacterial infection is the cause, your doctor might recommend antibiotics.

• Common Cold: This viral infection of your nose and throat is usually harmless, although it might not feel that way. Many types of viruses can cause a common cold. Symptoms might include a runny or stuffy nose, sore throat, cough, congestion, slight body aches, mild headache, sneezing, low-grade fever, and malaise.

  • Treatment of a common cold is typically supportive, meaning it involves rest, hydration, and over-the-counter cold remedies to help with symptoms.

• Influenza (Flu): Influenza is a viral infection that attacks your respiratory system — your nose, throat and lungs. Influenza is commonly called the flu, but it's not the same as stomach "flu" viruses that cause diarrhea and vomiting. Symptoms can include fever, aching muscles, chills and sweats, headache, dry cough, fatigue and weakness, nasal congestion, and sore throat.

  • Treatment can involve rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies. Antiviral medication might be prescribed by a doctor in some cases.

What you can do

1. Rest your voice as much as possible. Avoid activities that strain your vocal cords, such as shouting or singing.
2. Stay hydrated. Drink plenty of fluids to prevent dehydration and moisten your throat. Warm liquids, such as broth, tea or lemon water, can soothe your throat.
3. Use a humidifier. A humidifier can moisten your nasal, throat, and voice box tissues.
4. Avoid decongestants. These can dry out your throat.
5. Avoid whispering. This can strain your voice just as much as talking.
6. Take over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort.

What you should look out for

Seek immediate medical attention if:

• Your symptoms worsen or do not improve after two weeks.
• You have difficulty swallowing.
• You have difficulty breathing.
• You cough up blood.

Remember, this advice is intended to be general in nature, and specific causes may need different management. Always consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.