Hoarseness

What is hoarseness?

Hoarseness, also called dysphonia, is a common condition characterized by a hoarse or strained voice. Your throat may also feel sore. Numerous factors can cause hoarseness. Dr. Shapiro determines which condition is responsible for your symptoms and offers an array of treatments to ease any discomfort.

What does hoarseness sound like?

A hoarse voice might sound:

• Strained
• Raspy
• Soft
• Higher or lower than usual
• Breathy 
• Shaky
• Whisper-like

Your voice may sound different than usual or like you have a lump in your throat. 

See Dr. Shapiro if hoarseness lasts three weeks or longer or it’s difficult or painful for you to breathe, talk, or swallow. Visit with him if you have a lump in your neck, cough up blood, or lose your voice altogether.

What may cause hoarseness?

Things that increase the risk of hoarseness may include:

• Smoking
• Voice overuse
• Excessive cheering, yelling, or talking
• Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Laryngitis
• Vocal cord hemorrhages, paralysis, nodules, cysts, or polyps
• Growths around the vocal cords
• Neurological speech disorders
• Other neurological conditions
• Cancer
• Illnesses
• Aging
• Chronic throat clearing or coughing
• Inhaling irritating substances
• Medical conditions (thyroid disorders, strokes, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.)

About one in three people experience hoarseness during their lifetime. 

How is the cause of hoarseness diagnosed?

Dr. Shapiro completes a physical exam, listens to you speak, and asks how long you’ve had a hoarse voice. He discusses your lifestyle, symptoms, medical history, and medications. You may be a candidate for allergy testing at the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida.

Dr. Shapiro offers diagnostic testing, such as blood tests, a laryngoscopy, a videostroboscopy, a CT or MRI, sound analyses, and a biopsy. 

How is hoarseness treated?

Treating hoarseness at the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida depends on the underlying cause and may consist of:

• Resting your voice
• Fluids
• Diet and other lifestyle modifications
• Not smoking
• Voice therapy
• Medications
• Allergy treatments
• Injections
• Surgery

Dr. Shapiro tailors a plan offering long-lasting relief and a better quality of life. He follows up to ensure your treatment plan for hoarseness works effectively.

Schedule a hoarseness evaluation at the Ear, Nose, Throat, and Sinus Center of South Florida by calling the office or booking an appointment online today.