Hoarse voice
Hoarseness (Dysphonia)[edit | edit source]
Overview[edit | edit source]
Hoarseness, medically termed as dysphonia, is a common voice disorder where the voice sounds breathy, raspy, strained, or exhibits changes in volume or pitch. It can be accompanied by a scratchy feeling in the throat.
Causes[edit | edit source]
Hoarseness is primarily a symptom of issues affecting the vocal folds in the larynx (voice box).
Common Causes[edit | edit source]
- Laryngitis: Often resulting from an upper respiratory infection, cold, or allergies.
- Vocal Strain: Caused by excessive yelling, prolonged talking, singing loudly, or speaking in an unnatural pitch.
- Environmental Factors: Exposure to irritants like smoke or dust.
Symptoms and Associated Conditions[edit | edit source]
- Changes in Voice: The voice may sound breathy, raspy, weaker in volume, or different in pitch.
- Throat Discomfort: A feeling of scratchiness or unease in the throat.
- Persistent Cough: Sometimes accompanying the hoarseness.
Related Conditions[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis and Evaluation[edit | edit source]
Diagnosis often involves a physical examination of the throat, voice analysis, and sometimes laryngoscopy to view the vocal cords.
Treatment and Management[edit | edit source]
The primary treatment for hoarseness is resting the voice. Other treatments depend on the underlying cause and may include:
- Voice Therapy: Especially if caused by vocal strain.
- Medication: For infections or allergies.
- Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding irritants, smoking cessation, and managing GERD.
Prevention[edit | edit source]
Preventive measures include proper voice technique, avoiding vocal strain, staying hydrated, and avoiding irritants.
When to Seek Medical Attention[edit | edit source]
Persistent hoarseness lasting more than two weeks should be evaluated by a healthcare professional to rule out more serious conditions.
Global Prevalence and Impact[edit | edit source]
Hoarseness is a common condition worldwide, affecting people of all ages. It can significantly impact quality of life, particularly for those who use their voice professionally.
See Also[edit | edit source]
References[edit | edit source]
- ENT Health - Hoarseness
- Mayo Clinic - Laryngitis
- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association - Hoarseness
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