Hoarseness
What is hoarseness?
Hoarseness is a harsh, rough quality to the voice.
What causes hoarseness?
Hoarseness is generally caused by irritation of, or
injury to, the vocal cords. The voice box, or larynx, is the portion of the
respiratory (breathing) tract containing the vocal cords which produce sound. It is located between the pharynx and the trachea. The larynx, also called the
voice box, is a 2-inch-long, tube-shaped organ in the neck.
We use the larynx when we breathe, talk, or swallow. Its outer wall of cartilage forms the area of the
front of the neck referred to as the "Adams apple." The vocal cords are two
bands of muscle that form a "V" inside the larynx.
Hoarseness can be caused by a number of conditions. The
most common cause of hoarseness is inflammation of the vocal cords from virus
infection. Hoarseness can also be caused by bacterial infection, overuse of the
voice (such as from yelling or singing), inhalation of irritants (smoking,
etc.), chronic sinusitis, reflux of acid from
the stomach (GERD), tuberculosis, syphilis, and
cancer of
(or that has spread to) the larynx.
What is the treatment for hoarseness?
Cough suppressants are sometimes used to prevent recurrent irritation of the vocal
cords from coughing. Hoarseness that persists for longer than 2 weeks should be
evaluated by doctor.
Last Editorial Review: 2/9/2005
- Esophageal pH Monitoring -
- Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD, Heartburn) - Learn about gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD, acid reflux, heartburn) symptoms like heartburn, chest pain, regurgitation, and nausea. Causes, diagnosis, treatment and prevention information is also included.
- Sjogren's Syndrome - Sjogren's syndrome causes symptoms that include arthritis, dry mouth, lips and eyes, leading to eye pain. Read about diagnosis, Schirmer testing, treatment and medications.
Latest Medical News
Specialty RSS
