subject: Hoarseness - Where Did My Voice Go? [print this page] Do you use your voice constantly throughout the day? Have you recently suffered a cold? Due to an array of reasons you can develop hoarseness, which can limit your ability to speak properly and loudly. If you suffer from hoarseness there is no need to worry, as it is a symptom rather than a disease. Hoarseness is a general term used to describe abnormal changes in your voice. So when your voice is hoarse, this means your voice may sound breathy, raspy or strained. You may also suffer from changes in volume or pitch.
Thankfully, hoarseness does not last long, nor does it appear to be indicative of a serious condition. Unfortunately, though, if your hoarseness does persist longer than two weeks it is important to visit your ENT in Hackensack, as persistent hoarseness can be a warning sign of cancer. Causes of your hoarseness might include:
*Common cold
*Upper respiratory tract infection
*Using your voice too much, too loudly, or improperly
*Gastroesophageal reflux
*Smoking
*Allergies, thyroid problems, neurological disorders, rheumatoid arthritis and trauma to the voice box
Diagnosing Hoarseness
When you go into your Hackensack ENT's office for an examination of your hoarseness, they will begin by getting a thorough history of your hoarseness and assessment of your general health. Sometimes a small endoscope is passed into the nostril to see the voice box.
Your ear, nose and throat doctor will also evaluate your voice quality based on the following:
*A breathy voice - this may suggest poor vocal cord function, which may be caused by a benign tumor, polyp or cancer of the larynx.
*A raspy voice - this may indicate vocal cord thickening due to swelling, inflammation from infection or a chemical irritant, voice abuse or paralysis of the vocal cords.
*A high shaky voice, or soft voice - this may suggest trouble getting enough breathing force or air.
Laboratory testing, such as a biopsy, x-rays and thyroid function tests, may be ordered depending on the findings of the physical exam.
What is involved in Treatment?
Treatment for your hoarseness depends on the cause, with most cases being treated by resting the voice or modifying how it is used. Your ENT may make some recommendations about voice use behavior, refer you to other voice team members, and in some instances recommend surgery if a discreet lesion is identified. If you smoke, your ENT will also recommend that you stop smoking or decrease your exposure to secondhand smoke. Drinking plenty of fluids is also successful in soothing a hoarse voice.
In order to prevent mild hoarseness it is recommended that you:
*Quit smoking
*Avoid alcohol and caffeine as they can dehydrate the body
*Stay clear of secondhand smoke
*Drink plenty of water
*Watch your diet by avoiding spicy foods and alcohol
*Try not to use your voice too long or too loudly
*Seek professional voice training
*Avoid speaking or singing when your voice is injured or hoarse
If you are exhibiting hoarseness, contact your ENT in Hackensack for further diagnosis and treatment options. Be sure to seek treatment immediately if your hoarseness does not go away.
