6 Times Your Hoarse Voice May Be More Than Just Cold

Hoarseness in an individual is apparent as a strained, raspy voice that has a different pitch and volume than usual.

Many of us view a hoarse voice as a temporary inconvenience but it could be indicative of more than that. You should seek out medical attention from an ENT doctor if you think your hoarseness is caused by some underlying condition.

What Causes Hoarseness?

  • Acute Laryngitis

Acute laryngitis refers to when the vocal cords become swollen, either from a cold, upper respiratory tract infection or strenuous use of voice. If you continue straining your voice in spite of laryngitis, you could end up with a severely injured vocal chord.

  • Speaking Loudly for Extended Periods

This one is pretty self-explanatory. Speaking loudly to carry your voice over noisy situations, not using a mic when public speaking, and excessive use at an inappropriate pitch are some situations that wear down your voice to hoarseness.

  • Vocal Cord Lesions

Singer's nodules (also known as vocal nodules) are callus-like growths occurring in the individual's vocal cords. Polyps and cysts are also common in those using their voice too much, too loudly, and for too long. However, do note that benign lesions can also occur in people who do not misuse their voice.

  • Vocal Hemorrhage

You may develop vocal hemorrhage following a yell or any strenuous vocal activity. In this condition, the blood vessels present at the surface of the vocal cord rupture to fill the surrounding soft tissue with blood. If you suffer a vocal hemorrhage, it is imperative that you treat your voice with absolute rest. Keep in mind, that vocal hemorrhages are considered an emergency and should be catered to by an ENT doctor at the earliest possible.

  • Acid Reflux

GERD or Gastro Esophageal Reflex happens when the stomach regurgitates its acid up the esophagus. The acid irritates the vocal cords. Most patients report hoarseness in the voice during the morning that gradually improves throughout the day.

If your hoarseness is caused by GERD, it can be identified by the feeling of a lump stuck in your throat that you can't seem to get rid of.

LPRD or Laryngopharyngeal Reflux is another form of acid reflux where the stomach acids reach the upper sphincter, right at the back of the throat. Since the larynx, pharynx, and the rest of the respiratory tract are considerably more sensitive to acid and enzymes, even a small amount of reflux is likely to cause more widespread damage.

  • Smoking

If you are a regular smoker and suddenly start noticing hoarseness in your throat, it may be suggestive of throat cancer. While that is not always the case, we still recommend you see an ENT doctor to rule out the possibility.

Oklahoma Otolaryngology Associates, LLC is a group of physicians that specialize in ear, nose, and throat ailments. We have been offering our expert services to Oklahoma City folks for more than 35 years now. Under our care, you will be provided with comprehensive diagnostic methods that recognize the underlying cause behind your symptoms. Find your nearest provider via our website today!

**Disclaimer: The information on this page is not intended to be a doctor's advice, nor does it create any form of patient-doctor relationship.

Guest User