Other Names : Loss of voice
==Causes==
Aphonia is usually due to problems with the voice box (called the larynx). However, there can be other causes, including:
*Conditions that affect the vocal cords or airway. This may involve injury, swelling, or disease, such as:
**Laryngitis —caused by a viral, bacterial, or fungal infection
**Vocal abuse—yelling or talking excessively
**Exposure to airborne irritants, such as smoke or air pollution
**Acid reflux from gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
**Thickening of the vocal chords
**Nodules or polyps on the vocal chords
**Muscle tension dysphonia
**Damage to the nerves that affect how the larynx functions
**Laryngeal or thyroid cancer
**Removal of larynx
**Breathing problems that affect the ability to speak
**Neurological disorders such as myasthenia gravis , multiple sclerosis , Parkinson’s disease , and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
*Psychological conditions such as hysterical aphonia or psychogenic aphonia
==Natural Remedies==
*Rest your voice.
*Avoid smoking.
*Stay hydrated.
*Use a cool mist humidifier.
* [[Eucalyptus globulus]] + [[Propolis]]
* [[Rumex Crispus]] : Aphonia from exposure to cold.
* [[Mango leaves]] : Effective in treating all kinds of respiratory problems including Cold, asthma, and bronchitis. It is even used to cure a cough and regain lost voice. You can take mango tea daily to treat respiratory problems or you can take the decoction.
==Warning==
*Call for emergency medical services right away or go to the emergency room if you:
**Suddenly lose your ability to speak—This may be a sign of a head injury or a stroke .
**Are having trouble breathing
**If you think you have an emergency, call for emergency medical services right away.
*See your doctor if you have any of the following:
**Hoarseness that is not getting better after 2 weeks
**Complete loss of voice that lasts more than a few days
**Hard, swollen lymph nodes
**Difficulty swallowing
**Cough up blood
**A lump in your throat
**Severe throat pain
**Unexplained weight loss
[[Category:Diseases]]