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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Laryngitis

Mild
3
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Avian Influenza

Unknown
3
Symptoms
1
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs

Overview

Laryngitis
Laryngitis is inflammation and irritation of the larynx, or voice box, and commonly causes hoarseness or temporary loss of the voice. The vocal cords become swollen and do not vibrate normally, changing the sound of the voice. Laryngitis often occurs with an upper respiratory infection and usually improves when the underlying illness resolves. In some cases it can be related to allergies, irritation, reflux, bacterial infection or excessive use of the voice.
Avian Influenza
Avian influenza is an infection caused by influenza A viruses that primarily affect birds but can occasionally infect humans and other animals. Human infections are uncommon but can sometimes cause severe respiratory illness. Most human infections occur after close or prolonged contact with infected birds, animals, or contaminated environments.

Symptoms

Shared
Dry Cough
Only in Left Disease
Difficulty Swallowing Neck Pain
Only in Right Disease
Chest Pain Fever

Causes

Shared
None
Only in Left Disease
None
Only in Right Disease
Infection

Diagnosis

Laryngitis
Laryngitis is usually diagnosed from symptoms and a physical examination, particularly when hoarseness occurs with a respiratory infection. The healthcare provider may examine the throat and ask about recent illness, allergies, reflux, smoking and voice use. Persistent hoarseness, especially when it lasts for several weeks or occurs in a smoker, may require evaluation by an ear, nose and throat specialist. Flexible examination of the throat and upper airway can be used to inspect the vocal cords and identify other causes of persistent hoarseness.
Avian Influenza
Diagnosis of avian influenza requires laboratory testing because symptoms can resemble other respiratory infections. Testing may involve molecular methods such as polymerase chain reaction on respiratory specimens. A detailed history of contact with birds, animals, contaminated environments, and relevant travel or outbreak exposure is important when evaluating possible infection.

Prevention

Laryngitis
The risk of laryngitis can be reduced by washing the hands regularly and avoiding close contact with people who have upper respiratory infections when possible. Avoiding cigarette smoke and other inhaled irritants can help protect the larynx. People who use their voices heavily should avoid excessive voice strain and allow adequate rest. Managing conditions such as allergies and reflux may also reduce irritation. Stopping smoking is especially important for protecting the voice box and reducing the risk of serious smoking-related conditions that may cause persistent hoarseness.
Avian Influenza
Reducing contact with sick or dead birds and animals, avoiding contaminated environments, using appropriate protective equipment when exposure cannot be avoided, and practicing good hand hygiene can reduce risk. People working with poultry or infected animals should follow public-health and occupational infection-control guidance.

Risk Factors

Laryngitis
Risk factors include frequent upper respiratory infections, exposure to cigarette smoke or other respiratory irritants, allergies, gastroesophageal reflux, heavy or prolonged use of the voice and exposure to chemicals that irritate the throat. People who use their voices extensively for work may be more likely to develop voice strain. Smoking is particularly important in people with persistent hoarseness because it increases exposure to airway irritants and is associated with conditions that can also cause long-lasting voice changes.
Avian Influenza
Risk is mainly associated with close or prolonged contact with infected birds or animals, contaminated environments, or surfaces containing infectious material. People working with poultry or other potentially infected animals may have greater exposure. Risk can vary according to the circulating virus and local animal infections.

Treatment

Laryngitis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Avian Influenza
Treatment comparison will be available soon.