Why Does My Larynx Feel Sore and Tight All the Time?

Question

For months now, my larynx feels irritated and sore almost every day. I don’t have a cold, but my throat feels tight, dry, and slightly painful, especially after talking for long periods. By the end of the day, I feel like my voice is strained, even if I haven’t been yelling or speaking loudly.

I thought it might be allergies, but antihistamines don’t help. Then I considered acid reflux, since I do get heartburn sometimes. Could that be causing inflammation in my larynx?

I’ve also read that Ayurveda has treatments for voice and throat health. Are there Ayurvedic herbs or oils that can heal the larynx naturally? Should I change my diet? I drink a lot of tea, but could that be making it worse?

If anyone has dealt with a constantly sore larynx and found relief, please share your experience. I don’t want this to turn into a chronic issue!

Dr Sujal Patil · Accepted Answer

Thank you for sharing your concerns. It sounds like you may be experiencing laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR), which is a form of acid reflux that irritates the throat and larynx without always causing heartburn. The throat tightness, dryness, and soreness you describe are common signs. If LPR is the cause, acid from the stomach can reach the throat, leading to inflammation and voice strain.

You can take a few steps to ease your symptoms. First, dietary changes are key: avoid acidic, spicy, or greasy foods, as well as caffeine, alcohol, and carbonated drinks. Eating smaller, more frequent meals and avoiding food 2-3 hours before lying down can also help. Since tea can sometimes irritate acid reflux, you may want to switch to caffeine-free herbal teas (such as licorice or ginger, which soothe the throat).

In Ayurveda, herbs like Yashtimadhu (licorice root) are traditionally used to coat and heal the throat lining. Triphala can help balance digestion, potentially reducing acid reflux. You could also try daily oil pulling with warm sesame oil to moisten and protect the throat. Gargling with warm salt water or turmeric water may also help reduce inflammation.

If these changes don’t provide relief, consider seeing an ENT specialist to rule out any structural or chronic issues with your larynx. You’re already being proactive, which is a great first step in preventing this from becoming a long-term issue!

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