New research blames pollution and everyday allergens for laryngitis

Researchers say everyday exposure to environmental tobacco smoke, allergens and air pollution may be the root of chronic cases of laryngitis.

The new research has found that symptoms of laryngitis, including hoarseness of the voice, cough and chronic clearing of the throat, which is generally attributed to a viral infection and overuse of the voice, can be blamed on pollution and everyday allergens.

Earlier research has suggested other factors, including consistent exposure to second-hand smoke, may also be a trigger.

The researchers led by Dr. Peter Belafsky an assistant Professor and Director of Voice and Swallowing at UC Davis in Sacramento, California, have now found by using animal models that exposure to different environmental pollutants, including dust mites and everyday air pollution, can cause what they term as "environmental laryngitis."

The research team say the findings are significant, given recent reports on diminishing air quality and increased unhealthy levels of ozone and particle pollution, especially in countries such as China, which could lead to more cases of laryngitis and chronic laryngitis.

The study the 'Effect of Allergens and Tobacco Smoke on Laryngeal Mucosa' was presented by Dr. Belafsky this week at the 2008 American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO in Chicago.