Dr Bernadette Carr: Is there a difference between pharyngitis and laryngitis?

Q. Should I visit my GP?

Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box), usually caused by a viral infection or a bacterial infection. Antibiotics should only be prescribed if the infection is believed to be caused by bacteria.

The hoarse voice that is associated with laryngitis is only temporary as the vocal cords become inflamed while you have the infection. In some cases it can be caused by overuse of the vocal cords.