A hoarse voice, or dysphonia, is a condition characterized by an abnormal change in the voice's quality, pitch, or volume, making it sound raspy, breathy, strained, or weak. This change can result from irritation, inflammation, or injury to the vocal cords, which are located in the larynx (voice box). Common causes of a hoarse voice include acute laryngitis, often due to a viral infection or excessive voice use such as shouting or singing. Other causes include chronic laryngitis from smoking, exposure to irritants, or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), where stomach acid irritates the vocal cords. Allergies, thyroid problems, and neurological conditions affecting the nerves of the larynx can also lead to hoarseness. Less commonly, a hoarse voice may be due to benign vocal cord nodules or polyps, and in rare cases, it can signal laryngeal cancer. Treatment for a hoarse voice depends on the underlying cause. Resting the voice and staying hydrated are essential for recovery from acute laryngitis. For hoarseness due to GERD, medications to reduce stomach acid and lifestyle changes, like avoiding spicy foods and eating smaller meals, can be effective. Smoking cessation and avoiding irritants are crucial for chronic laryngitis. Voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist may be recommended for persistent hoarseness or vocal cord nodules. If the hoarseness lasts longer than two weeks, is severe, or is associated with other symptoms like difficulty swallowing or breathing, a medical evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
