Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx, also known as the voice box. Inside the larynx are your vocal chords – two folds that open and close, forming sounds through their movement and vibration. Laryngitis occurs when the vocal chords become inflamed or irritated due to overuse, irritation or infection. This swelling causes distortion of the sounds produced by air passing over them. As a result, your voice sounds hoarse. Most cases of Laryngitis are not serious and heal within a few days on their own.