Diagnosis of different forms of acute<unk>  *<unk>  following trauma: This form of<unk>  is usually identified by obtaining a case history providing information on previous phono traumatic experiences, internal trauma caused by recent procedures as well as any previous neck injuries. * Acute viral<unk> : This form of<unk>  is characterized by lower vocal pitch as well as hoarseness. The symptoms in this form of<unk>  are usually present for less than one week, however they can persist for 3–4 weeks. This form of<unk>  might also be accompanied by upper respiratory tract symptoms such as: sore throat, odynophagia, rhinorrhea, dyspnea, postnasal discharge, and congestion. * Fungal<unk> : A biopsy and culture of abnormal lesion may help confirm fungal<unk> . Visual diagnosis The larynx itself will often show erythema (reddening) and edema (swelling). This can be seen with laryngoscopy or stroboscopy (method depends on the type of<unk> . Stroboscopy may be relatively normal or may reveal asymmetry, aperiodicity, and reduced mucosal wave patterns. Other features of the laryngeal tissues may include * Redness of the laryngeal tissues (acute) * Dilated blood vessels (acute) * Thick, yet dry laryngal tissue (chronic) * Stiff vocal folds * Sticky secretions between the vocal folds and nearby structures (the interarytenoid region) Referral Some signs and symptoms indicate the need for early referral. These include * Difficulty swallowing * Vocal stridor * Ear pain * Recent weight loss * History of smoking * Current or recent radiotherapy treatment (in the neck region) * Recent neck surgery or surgery involving endotracheal tubing * Person is a professional voice user (teacher, singer, actor, call center worker, and so on) Differential diagnosis * Acute epiglottitis: This is more likely in those with stridor, drooling, and painful or trouble swallowing. * Spasmodic dysphonia * Reflux<unk>  * Chronic allergic<unk>  * Neoplasm * Croup: This presents with a barking cough, hoarseness of voice, and inspiratory stridor.
Laryngitis
Croup
Pharyngitis
Epiglottitis
Sinusitis
Laryngeal cancer
Tonsillitis
Rhinosinusitis