Causes of Hoarseness, Vocal Cord Problems, and Treatment image

Causes of Hoarseness, Vocal Cord Problems, and Treatment

Opr. Dr. Mehmet ÖZGENÇ -

Hoarseness is a condition where the voice becomes weak, husky, shaky, or completely lost. It is usually caused by issues with the vocal cords and can be temporary or chronic.


Causes of Hoarseness


Temporary and Mild Causes

  • Colds and Infections: Upper respiratory tract infections.
  • Excessive Voice Use: Prolonged shouting, singing, or speaking.
  • Reflux (Laryngopharyngeal Reflux): Stomach acid reaching the throat, irritating the vocal cords.


Vocal Cord Problems

  • Vocal Cord Nodules or Polyps: Benign growths on the vocal cords caused by overuse.
  • Vocal Cord Paralysis: Nerve damage leading to immobility of the vocal cords (e.g., after thyroid surgery).
  • Vocal Cord Hemorrhage: Bleeding due to sudden or excessive voice use.


Chronic Conditions

  • Smoking and Alcohol Use: Irritate the vocal cords.
  • Allergies: Cause swelling and irritation of the vocal cords.
  • Thyroid Problems: Thyroid disorders can affect the vocal cords.
  • Cancer: Laryngeal cancer can lead to hoarseness.


Neurological or Systemic Causes

  • Parkinson’s Disease, ALS: Neurological disorders affecting voice control.
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Particularly those involving thyroid hormones.


Diagnosis of Hoarseness

  • Medical History: Evaluates the duration, onset, and triggers of symptoms.
  • Physical Examination: An ENT specialist examines the larynx and vocal cords using endoscopy.
  • Laryngoscopy: A fiberoptic camera is used to directly view the vocal cords.
  • Stroboscopy: A special light technique is used to analyze vocal cord movements in detail.
  • Blood Tests: Conducted if thyroid or other hormonal issues are suspected.


Treatment for Hoarseness


Medications

  • Antibiotics: For bacterial infections.
  • Acid Suppressors: For reflux-related hoarseness (e.g., proton pump inhibitors).
  • Antihistamines: For hoarseness caused by allergies.
  • Steroids: To reduce inflammation or swelling of the vocal cords.


Voice Therapy

  • Vocal exercises: Provided by a speech therapist to teach proper vocal cord usage and support recovery.


Surgical Intervention

  • Polyp or Nodule Removal: Surgical removal of growths on the vocal cords.
  • Treatment for Vocal Cord Paralysis: Botox injections or surgical procedures may be required.
  • Cancer Treatment: Surgical removal of cancerous tissue or radiotherapy.


Lifestyle Changes and Precautions

  • Quit smoking and alcohol.
  • Avoid foods that can trigger reflux.
  • Rest your voice, especially after excessive use.
  • Stay hydrated and use a humidifier.


When to See a Doctor

  • If hoarseness lasts longer than 2 weeks.
  • If accompanied by pain, difficulty swallowing, coughing up blood, or weight loss.
  • If hoarseness occurs frequently.


Hoarseness is often mild and temporary, but when it persists, it may indicate a serious underlying condition and requires professional evaluation.