Hoarseness

What Is Hoarseness? 

Hoarseness is the term used to describe an abnormal change in the voice due to swelling or lumps on the vocal folds in the voice box. Vocal folds are the part of the body that allows sound to be produced. When they are open, air passes freely through them. When they fold, or come together, they vibrate and create sounds. When these vocal folds swell or have irregular growths, the sound quality will change. A hoarse voice may sound raspy, different in pitch, or strained. 

What Causes A Hoarseness? 

Acute laryngitis

The most common cause of hoarseness is laryngitis, which is the swelling of the vocal cords. This kind of vocal change is common during a common cold or voice strain.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)

This disease causes stomach acid to enter the oesophagus (or tube that helps you to swallow) and irritates the vocal folds.

Vocal cord growths

Using your voice too much or speaking loudly for a long period of time can lead to vocal cord nodules or polyps, which are benign growths on the vocal folds.

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)

Similar to GERD, LPR occurs when stomach acid goes through the oesophagus and into the throat. This condition can also cause vocal cord irritation, and possibly more damage than GERD because the throat is more sensitive to stomach acid. 

Laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR)

Similar to GERD, LPR occurs when stomach acid goes through the oesophagus and into the throat. This condition can also cause vocal cord irritation, and possibly more damage than GERD because the throat is more sensitive to stomach acid.

Smoking

Smoking can cause a sore throat and hoarseness, which is a potential sign of throat cancer. It is always best to see an ear, nose and throat specialist if your voice becomes hoarse and you are a smoker.

Other conditions

This includes allergies, voice box injury, thyroid problems, and laryngeal cancer. Due to the severity of certain conditions related to throat hoarseness, your condition should always be evaluated by a professional ear, nose and throat doctor. 

When Should I See A Doctor About Hoarseness? 

If you experience hoarseness accompanied by any of the following conditions, see a doctor as soon as possible: 

Raspy voice that lasts longer than 3 weeks

Difficulty breathing

Coughing up blood

Lump on your neck

Significant voice changes that last longer than a few days

How Is Hoarseness Diagnosed? 

If you experience hoarseness, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. An ear, nose and throat specialist will conduct a physical exam in addition to evaluating symptoms and medical history to make an accurate diagnosis. 

Sometimes, a laryngoscopy is needed to examine the vocal folds. 

How Is Hoarseness Treated? 

If laryngitis is determined to be the cause of hoarseness, an ENT doctor can provide laryngitis treatment. If there is another cause for the condition, our ear, nose and throat doctors can recommend other hoarseness treatment options, ranging from simply resting the voice and voice therapy to throat surgery. Consult a specialist to determine the right treatment for your condition. 

How Is Hoarseness Treated? 

If laryngitis is determined to be the cause of hoarseness, an ENT doctor can provide laryngitis treatment. If there is another cause for the condition, our ear, nose and throat doctors can recommend other hoarseness treatment options, ranging from simply resting the voice and voice therapy to throat surgery. Consult a specialist to determine the right treatment for your condition.