Understanding the Larynx (Voice Box) in Grand Rapids, MI

The larynx, commonly called the voice box, sits at the back of the throat, just above the windpipe (trachea). It plays a key role in breathing, speaking, and protecting the lungs when you swallow.

In Grand Rapids, MI, ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialists at major health systems like Corewell Health (formerly Spectrum Health), Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health – University of Michigan Health, and Mercy Health diagnose and treat a wide range of larynx disorders, from simple laryngitis to laryngeal cancer.

Structure and Function of the Larynx

Cartilage and the Adam’s Apple

The larynx is supported by rings of cartilage, which form the visible bump at the front of the neck known as the Adam’s apple. This structure helps keep the airway open and stable.

Vocal Cords and Voice Production

Inside the larynx are the vocal cords (vocal folds)—stretchy bands of tissue attached to the inner walls of the voice box.

• When you breathe, air passes through the vocal cords.
• Movements of the laryngeal cartilage allow the vocal cords to tighten or relax, changing the pitch of your voice.
• The nose, mouth, tongue, jaw, and throat also shape sound and influence how your voice actually sounds.

Cold, dry West Michigan winters and indoor heating can dry out the throat and vocal cords, which may worsen hoarseness for many Grand Rapids residents, especially teachers, singers, and people who talk a lot for work.

The Epiglottis: Protecting the Airway

The larynx contains a small but vital flap called the epiglottis. When you swallow:

• The epiglottis covers the trachea (windpipe)
• This prevents food and liquid from entering the lungs

If the epiglottis becomes infected or swollen, it can be a medical emergency because it may block the airway.

Common Larynx Disorders in Grand Rapids

Larynx disorders range from mild, temporary irritation to serious, life-threatening conditions. In West Michigan, factors such as cold weather, indoor air dryness, cigarette smoking, and workplace dust exposure can all play a role.

Hoarseness: The Most Common Symptom

The usual symptom of a larynx problem is hoarseness—a raspy, weak, or strained voice. Depending on the cause, you may also notice:

• Loss of voice
• Pain in the throat
• A raw, tender sensation at the back of the throat
• A constant urge to clear your throat
• Breathing difficulties

If hoarseness lasts more than 2–3 weeks, especially if you smoke or have a history of heavy voice use, it’s important to see a doctor or ENT in Grand Rapids.

Acute and Chronic Laryngitis

Acute Laryngitis

Acute laryngitis is a sudden inflammation of the larynx, most often caused by a viral infection such as the common cold or flu—both common in Michigan’s fall and winter seasons.

Causes include:

• Viral infections (cold, flu)
• Overusing the voice (yelling, loud cheering at sporting events, singing)
• Irritation from cigarette smoke
• Dry indoor air in winter

Typical symptoms:

• Hoarseness or loss of voice
• Sore or scratchy throat
• Raw feeling at the back of the throat
• Constant throat clearing
• Mild cough

Chronic Laryngitis

Chronic laryngitis develops when the larynx is irritated over a long period, often due to:

• Long-term smoking or vaping
• Prolonged exposure to air pollutants, such as dust, chemical fumes, or industrial irritants (common in some West Michigan workplaces)
• Ongoing acid reflux (GERD)
• Chronic voice abuse (frequent shouting, loud speaking, or singing without proper technique)

Chronic laryngitis can lead to permanent voice changes and should be evaluated by a healthcare provider.

Croup in Children

Croup is a form of viral laryngitis that primarily affects young children, usually between 6 months and 6 years. It is seen regularly in pediatric practices and emergency departments across Grand Rapids, especially in the fall and winter.

The virus causes inflammation and swelling of:

• The larynx (voice box)
• The trachea (windpipe)
• The upper airways leading to the lungs

Typical Croup Symptoms

• A barking cough (often described as sounding like a seal)
• Noisy breathing, especially at night
• Mild fever
• Hoarseness
• Breathing difficulties due to swelling

In severe cases, areas such as the lips, mouth, or fingertips may turn blue (cyanosis) from lack of oxygen. This is an emergency and requires immediate care at an emergency department, such as Corewell Health Butterworth Hospital or Helen DeVos Children’s Hospital in Grand Rapids.

Epiglottitis: A Serious Infection

Sometimes, a bacterial infection can affect the epiglottis, causing epiglottitis, a potentially life-threatening condition.

Common features:

• High fever
• Child appears very unwell, anxious, or drooling
• Severe sore throat
• Difficulty swallowing
• Trouble breathing

The Hib (Haemophilus influenzae type b) vaccination, which is part of the routine childhood immunization schedule in Michigan, usually prevents epiglottitis. If it is suspected, the child must be treated urgently in hospital.

Inhaled Foreign Bodies

An inhaled foreign body (such as a small toy or piece of food) can:

• Become lodged near the larynx or trachea
• Cause a croup-like cough
• Lead to sudden breathing difficulties

This is an emergency and typically requires removal in hospital, often by bronchoscopy under general anesthesia.

Ulcers, Polyps, Nodules, and Other Growths

Certain voice behaviors and irritants can damage the tissues of the larynx:

• Repeatedly forcing sounds by abruptly lowering the epiglottis onto the trachea while shouting or straining the voice can cause ulcers from friction.
• Small lumps (nodules) and polyps can form on the vocal cords due to:
  • Chronic voice abuse (yelling, loud singing)
  • Long-term exposure to irritants such as cigarette smoke

These growths may cause:

• Persistent hoarseness
• Voice fatigue
• A rough or breathy voice

Any new or persistent growth on the vocal cords should be thoroughly investigated by an ENT specialist in Grand Rapids to rule out cancer.

In children, vocal cord nodules can sometimes be treated with voice therapy alone, teaching healthy voice techniques and reducing strain.

Cancer of the Larynx

The two main types of laryngeal cancer are:

• Squamous cell carcinoma
• Verrucous carcinoma

Most cases are strongly linked to cigarette smoking and, to a lesser extent, heavy alcohol use. In Michigan, smoking remains a significant risk factor for many head and neck cancers.

Early and Later Symptoms

Early symptoms:

• Persistent hoarseness (lasting more than 2–3 weeks)
• Dry cough
• Throat discomfort

Later symptoms:

• Coughing up blood
• Difficulty breathing
• Trouble swallowing
• Unintended weight loss

Early detection through evaluation by an ENT specialist at Corewell Health, Trinity Health Grand Rapids, Metro Health, or Mercy Health can greatly improve outcomes.

Diagnosing Larynx Disorders in Grand Rapids

The larynx can often be seen by looking through the open mouth, but more detailed tests are usually needed.

Common diagnostic methods include:

• Physical examination
• Neck X-ray and fluoroscopy (real-time X-rays showing movement)
• Laryngoscopy
  • A special instrument called a laryngoscope is used to view the throat and vocal cords
  • Can be done with a small flexible scope through the nose or a rigid scope through the mouth
• Biopsy
  • A small tissue sample is taken for testing if a growth or suspicious area is found

These tests are widely available through ENT clinics and hospital systems across Grand Rapids and Kent County.

Treatment Options for Larynx Disorders

Treatment depends on the underlying cause and the severity of symptoms.

Acute Laryngitis

• Resting the voice (avoid yelling, whispering, or prolonged talking)
• Pain-relieving medications (as advised by your doctor)
• Steam inhalation or humidifiers to moisten dry indoor air—especially helpful during Michigan winters
• Adequate hydration

Chronic Laryngitis

• Stopping smoking and avoiding secondhand smoke
• Reducing exposure to dust, chemicals, and air pollutants
• Managing acid reflux (GERD) if present
• Speech or voice therapy to reduce strain on the vocal cords
• In some cases, medications or further procedures as recommended by an ENT specialist

Croup in Children

Most cases of croup can be managed at home with guidance from a pediatrician or urgent care provider:

• Fluids
• Fever control (e.g., acetaminophen, as directed)
• Rest
• Sometimes steam inhalation or cool mist

When breathing is more difficult, a doctor may prescribe a short course of corticosteroids. In severe cases, the child may need hospital care for:

• Nebulized adrenaline (epinephrine)
• Oxygen
• Intubation (a breathing tube placed in the airway) if there is serious airway blockage

Epiglottitis

• Emergency hospital care
• Intravenous antibiotics
• Airway support, sometimes including intubation

Ulcers

• Resting the voice for at least six weeks
• Voice therapy to learn healthier speaking or singing techniques
• Avoiding behaviors that strain the vocal cords

Polyps, Nodules, and Other Benign Growths

• Surgical removal of lumps and bumps when needed
• Voice therapy, especially for nodules and for children, to prevent recurrence

Cancer of the Larynx

Treatment is often managed by a multidisciplinary team at major Grand Rapids hospitals and may include:

• Radiation therapy
• Surgery, including partial or complete removal of the larynx (laryngectomy)
• Sometimes chemotherapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer

After a laryngectomy, people can learn to speak again by:

• Swallowing and exhaling air through the esophagus (esophageal speech), or
• Using an electro-larynx device held against the throat

When to Seek Help in Grand Rapids, MI

Contact a healthcare provider or seek urgent care if you or your child experiences:

• Hoarseness lasting more than 2–3 weeks
• Complete loss of voice without clear cause
• Painful swallowing or persistent throat pain
• Difficulty breathing or noisy breathing
• A barking cough in a young child, especially with breathing trouble
• Blue lips, mouth, or fingertips (call 911 immediately)
• Coughing up blood
• A lump in the neck or persistent feeling of something stuck in the throat

Local Resources and Support in Grand Rapids

If you’re concerned about symptoms related to your larynx or voice:

• Primary Care Provider – Start with your family doctor or internal medicine physician in Grand Rapids.
• ENT (Otolaryngologist) – Available through:
  • Corewell Health (Spectrum Health)
  • Trinity Health Grand Rapids
  • Metro Health – University of Michigan Health
  • Mercy Health
• Kent County Health Department – Offers public health information, vaccination guidance (including Hib), and community resources.
• Grand Rapids Public Health Programs – Provide education on smoking cessation, respiratory health, and chronic disease management.

For cancer-related information and support, Michigan residents can also access statewide cancer organizations and local hospital-based cancer centers in Grand Rapids.

Key Points to Remember

• The larynx (voice box) contains the vocal cords and is essential for breathing, swallowing, and speaking.
• The most common symptom of larynx disorders is hoarseness.
• Causes range from viral infections and voice overuse to smoking, air pollution, and cancer.
• Prolonged exposure to dust and pollutants, common in some Michigan workplaces, can cause chronic laryngitis.
• Croup and epiglottitis affect the larynx in children; epiglottitis is rare but can be life-threatening.
• The Hib vaccine, routinely given to infants in Michigan, usually prevents epiglottitis.
• Early evaluation by a Grand Rapids ENT specialist can help diagnose problems quickly and improve treatment outcomes.