Hoarse Voice? When to See an ENT About Persistent Vocal Issues

It’s normal for your Voice to become hoarse or raspy now and then. But if you sound hoarse for more than a couple weeks, it warrants evaluation by an ear, nose and throat (ENT) doctor. Persistent hoarseness or Vocal changes can signify more serious issues with your vocal cords or throat that need medical care.

Common Causes of a Hoarse Voice

Many conditions lead to an abnormally hoarse, breathy, raspy voice or loss of volume and strength. Common causes include:

• Viral infections like a cold or flu
• Overuse of the voice by yelling, singing, or talking loudly
• Allergies that cause postnasal drip and throat clearing
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) with stomach acid irritation
• Smoking cigarettes or vaping
• Thyroid disorders
• Neurologic conditions affecting the larynx
• Cancer of the vocal cords, throat, or tongue

Warning Signs to See a Doctor

See an ENT promptly if you experience hoarseness along with:

• Persistent sore throat or trouble swallowing
• A neck lump
• Unintentional weight loss
• Ear pain
• Difficulty breathing
• Spitting up blood

These accompanying symptoms can indicate a serious underlying problem needing medical evaluation.

Diagnosing the Cause

An ENT specialist will examine your vocal cords and larynx with specialized scopes. You may also need imaging tests like an MRI or CT scan. Common diagnoses include:

• Laryngitis – vocal cord inflammation
• Vocal cord nodules or polyps
• Vocal cord paralysis or weakness
• Laryngeal papillomas – benign growths
• Esophageal disorders like GERD or cancer

Treatment Options

Treatments depend on the cause but may involve:

• Voice therapy with vocal rest
• Medications like steroids or antacids
• Surgery to remove masses or nodules
• Treatment of reflux with diet and lifestyle changes
• Cancer treatments like radiation, chemo, or surgery

Hoarseness lasting over two weeks needs an ENT specialist’s evaluation. Prompt treatment of the underlying cause can prevent permanent vocal damage and preserve your normal voice.