Laryngeal Voice and Hoarseness

Mouth | Pulmonology | Laryngeal Voice and Hoarseness (Symptom)


Description

Hoarseness is a term referring to abnormal voice changes. Hoarseness may be manifested as a voice that sounds breathy, strained, rough, or a voice that is louder or lower.

Causes

There are many causes of hoarseness, including viral laryngitis, the vocal cord nodules, laryngeal papillomas, gastroesophageal reflux laryngitis-related, and environmental irritants such as smoking snuff). An accumulation of fluid in the vocal cords associated with hoarseness has been termed Reinkes edema. Reinkes edema may occur as a result of cigarette smoking or voice abuse (prolonged or extended talking or shouting). Rarely, hoarseness results from serious illness such as cancer of head and neck.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Hoarseness may be short-term (acute) or long-term (chronic). Rest and time may improve the hoarseness. Crying, shouting, and too much talking or singing may make the problem worse. Healing process may take several days. Whispering is not a solution as it can strain the vocal cords more than speaking does. Reducing or stopping smoking can also help curing hoarseness.

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