Skip to main content
Book Visit»
Common Conditions We Treat at Vitality Urgent Care

Condition icon: Mouth and Throat
Laryngitis and Lost Voice

Laryngitis is swelling of the voice box, or larynx, that makes your voice hoarse or disappear. Laryngitis symptoms include a raspy voice, a dry or sore throat, and a tickling cough. Most cases are caused by a cold and clear within 1 to 2 weeks.

What Is It

The vocal cords swell and cannot vibrate normally. Colds and flu are the most common causes. Yelling, singing, or talking a lot can strain the voice. Acid reflux, allergies, and smoking can cause hoarseness that lasts longer.

Symptoms

  • A hoarse, raspy, or weak voice
  • Losing your voice completely
  • A dry, scratchy, or sore throat
  • A tickling cough
  • Needing to clear your throat often
  • Cold symptoms like a runny nose

Not sure it’s laryngitis? A sore throat with fever and no cough may be strep throat. Hoarseness that comes with heartburn may be from acid reflux.

Treatment

At your visit: A provider examines your throat and may check for strep or other infections. Most laryngitis is viral and does not need antibiotics. Hoarseness that lasts longer than expected should be checked.

At home:

  • Rest your voice and avoid whispering, which strains it more
  • Drink plenty of water and warm fluids
  • Breathe steam or use a humidifier
  • Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and smoke

Most laryngitis improves within 1 to 2 weeks.

When to Get Care for Laryngitis

Most laryngitis cases can be cared for at home. If you are not sure what it is, or it is not getting better, Vitality Urgent Care is here to answer your questions and advise the right treatment. No appointment is needed.

FAQ

How do you get your voice back fast?

Get your voice back fastest by resting it, drinking plenty of fluids, breathing steam, and avoiding whispering, alcohol, and smoke.

How long does laryngitis last?

Laryngitis from a cold usually lasts 1 to 2 weeks. Hoarseness lasting more than 3 weeks should be checked.

Is laryngitis contagious?

Laryngitis itself is not contagious, but the cold or flu virus that often causes it is. Washing hands and not sharing cups help prevent spread.

Should I whisper with laryngitis?

No, do not whisper with laryngitis. Whispering strains the vocal cords more than speaking softly. Resting your voice and drinking fluids help it heal.

Can urgent care treat laryngitis?

Yes, urgent care can treat laryngitis. At Vitality Urgent Care, a provider can examine your throat and check for strep. No appointment or referral is needed.

When should hoarseness be checked?

Hoarseness should be checked if it lasts more than 3 weeks, especially in smokers, or comes with trouble breathing or swallowing.

Last reviewed October 2026

Care When You Need It Most

Walk in when you need us. Book ahead if you prefer. Our doors are open.

🕒 Open 7 days a week, 365 days a year

Buffalo Grove: 56 W Dundee Rd, Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 8 PM | Sa -Sun: 8 AM - 4 PM

Lake Zurich: 480 S Rand Rd, Lake Zurich, IL 60047
Mon-Fri: 8 AM - 8 PM | Sat-Sun: 8 AM - 4 PM

JUST WALK-IN or Book Your Visit Online

Conditions We Treat:

Book Appointment