Risk factors for laryngitis include: Having a respiratory infection, such as a cold, bronchitis or sinusitis. Exposure to irritating substances, such as cigarette smoke, excessive alcohol intake, stomach acid or workplace chemicals. Overusing your voice, by speaking too much, speaking too loudly, shouting or singing.

Why do I lose my voice when I get a sinus infection?

When you lose your voice, it's most often due to laryngitis. Laryngitis occurs when your larynx (voice box) becomes irritated and inflamed. You can irritate your voice box when you overuse your voice or when you have an infection. Most cases of laryngitis are caused by viral infections, like the common cold.

What infection causes laryngitis?

The most common cause of laryngitis is a viral infection, often similar to those that cause the common cold or flu. Overuse of the voice can also cause inflammation of the larynx.