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Disease Comparison

Compare similarities and differences between two diseases.

Laryngitis

Mild
3
Symptoms
0
Causes
0
Treatments
5
FAQs
VS

Bronchiectasis

Moderate
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.
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a long-term lung condition in which the airways become permanently widened and damaged. Damaged airways do not clear mucus normally, allowing mucus and bacteria to accumulate and causing repeated lung infections. Symptoms may include a persistent cough, large amounts of mucus or phlegm, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest discomfort, fatigue, and repeated respiratory infections.

Symptoms

Shared
Dry Cough
Only in Left Disease
Difficulty Swallowing Neck Pain
Only in Right Disease
Chest Pain 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.
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is evaluated using symptoms, medical history, and a physical examination. A chest CT scan is commonly used because it can show widening and structural damage of the airways. Lung function tests can measure breathing ability. Sputum may be tested to identify bacteria or other organisms causing infection. Additional blood tests may be used to look for an underlying cause.

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.
Bronchiectasis
Preventing respiratory infections and treating them promptly can help reduce lung damage that may lead to bronchiectasis. Recommended vaccinations, including those against influenza and pneumococcal disease, can help protect against important infections. Avoiding tobacco smoke and other lung irritants is important. People with an underlying condition should follow treatment plans designed to maintain airway clearance and reduce infections.

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.
Bronchiectasis
Risk factors for bronchiectasis include previous severe or repeated respiratory infections, cystic fibrosis, immune-system problems, inflammatory diseases, and conditions that interfere with airway clearance. Risk may also increase with certain structural lung abnormalities and long-term exposure to irritants. Older age can be associated with increased risk, particularly when other lung or immune conditions are present.

Treatment

Laryngitis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.
Bronchiectasis
Treatment comparison will be available soon.