Q: I am a 29 years old male diagnosed with laryngitis lately. Starting with a pinpointed tickle in throat, it progressed to pain and hoarseness. I had alcohol thrice in the last twelve days. Can alcohol cause laryngitis? Also, I have recently started learning how to swim. I am supposed to hold my breath for about 40 seconds under the water and float on water as part of training programme. Does this have any relation to laryngitis?

A:Laryngitis means inflammation of the voice box and any functional (speaking loudly or for long hours) and physical (smoking, alcohol, hot food etc) factor can cause this inflammation. This can recur every time the irritants are present. Swimming and holding breath has nothing to do with this complaint.