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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Laryngitis

Mild
3
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Bacterial Pneumonia

Unknown
4
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.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Bacterial pneumonia is an infection of the lungs caused by bacteria. It can cause inflammation and fluid or pus in the air sacs, making breathing more difficult. Common symptoms include cough, fever, chills, chest discomfort, shortness of breath, fatigue, and sometimes mucus production. Severity varies from mild illness to a potentially serious infection requiring hospitalization.

Symptoms

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

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.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Diagnosis is based on symptoms, physical examination, and assessment of breathing and vital signs. Chest imaging, usually a chest X-ray, can help identify lung infection. Blood tests and sputum testing may be used in selected cases to identify bacterial infection or assess severity. Additional testing may be needed for people who are severely ill, hospitalized, or at increased risk of complications.

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.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Good hand hygiene, avoiding tobacco smoke, maintaining recommended vaccinations, managing chronic medical conditions, and reducing exposure to respiratory infections can lower pneumonia risk. Staying up to date with recommended pneumococcal and influenza vaccination is particularly important for eligible people. People who are ill should follow appropriate respiratory hygiene and seek care when symptoms become severe.

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.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Risk is higher in older adults, young children, and people with weakened immune systems or chronic heart, lung, kidney, or metabolic conditions. Smoking, recent respiratory infection, hospitalization, aspiration risk, and close exposure to infected individuals may also increase risk. People living in healthcare or long-term-care settings can have additional exposure to certain bacterial pathogens.

Treatment

Laryngitis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Bacterial Pneumonia
Treatment comparison will be available soon.