Hoarseness can result in an abnormal change in one’s voice, often accompanied by a dry or scratchy throat. Although this is typically a minor issue that may resolve within a day or two, persistent difficulty could indicate an underlying health problem. The vocal cords in the larynx are often affected in cases of hoarseness. If one is unsure whether the voice change is a cause for concern, it’s best to seek guidance from a doctor.
What is hoarseness?
Hoarseness, also known as dysphonia, is a condition in which the voice changes abnormally. The larynx plays a crucial role in the production of speech. When the voice box is affected, the sound becomes raspy, weak, or airy, making it difficult to speak clearly.
Causes of hoarseness
If someone experiences hoarseness, the doctor may refer them to an otolaryngologist. They may use an endoscope to better look at one’s vocal folds. Hoarseness can have many causes, including:
Laryngitis
It is caused by vocal cord inflammation due to colds, respiratory infections, or allergies.
Speaking loudly or for extended periods without rest
Cheering at sporting events, singing loudly, or using an unusually high or low voice may lead to hoarseness.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Hoarseness can be caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), which irritates the throat tissues with stomach acid.
Vocal fold hemorrhage
It happens when a blood vessel breaks and fills the surrounding tissues with blood.
Vocal fold paralysis
This condition affects the ability of one or both vocal folds to open or close correctly.
Noncancerous growths
Growths like vocal nodules, polyps, and cysts can form around or inside the vocal folds causing hoarseness.
Neurological disorders
Hoarseness can be caused by neurological disorders that affect the brain areas responsible for controlling the muscles in the throat or larynx.
Symptoms of hoarseness
The symptoms of hoarseness are typically a breathy, raspy, or strained voice with a weaker volume or lower pitch. Individuals may also experience a scratchy sensation in their throats. It is important to seek a doctor’s help if hoarseness persists for more than 10 days, as it may be a symptom of an underlying medical condition that requires immediate care.
Treatment of hoarseness
Hoarseness is a common vocal disorder that usually disappears within 1-2 days. In the meantime, here are some useful treatments for hoarseness:
Resting the voice and drinking plenty of hydrating fluids to keep the throat moist
Staying away from caffeine
Using a humidifier and taking a hot shower to soothe the throat
Sucking on lozenges or chewing gum to moisten the throat
Remove allergens from one’s surrounding environment
Avoid using decongestants to relieve hoarseness
When to visit a doctor?
If hoarseness persists for more than 10 days, it is advisable to consult a doctor. Here’re a few symptoms that need immediate clinical help:
Pain when speaking
Difficulty swallowing
A lump in the neck
Coughing up blood
Difficulty breathing
Pain when swallowing
No voice at all for a few days
Conclusion
Hoarseness is a common condition that affects the larynx’s ability to produce speech, but it is typically not serious. About one-third of people experience hoarseness at some point, regardless of age. Home remedies can be effective in treating mild cases of hoarseness.
