In this Article

• What is hoarseness?
• What causes hoarseness?
• What are the signs and symptoms of hoarseness?
• How are the causes of hoarseness diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for hoarseness?
• How is hoarseness prevented?
• Hoarseness At A Glance
• Hoarseness Glossary
• Hoarseness Index

How is hoarseness prevented?

Hoarseness can be prevented in some instances, for example:

• Avoid situations that require excessive strenuous voice use, and if a person needs to project their voice, use a microphone if possible.
  
  
• Voice therapists or singing teachers may be helpful in certain cases to assist individuals with vocal training and voice modification.
  
  
• Smoking cessation can prevent hoarseness or the development of cancer of the larynx.
  
  
• Individuals with hoarseness caused by gastroesophageal reflux (GERD) can benefit from medications and dietary modification (such as avoiding alcohol, caffeine and spicy foods).

Hoarseness At A Glance

• Hoarseness is an abnormal change in the voice.
  
  
• The most common cause of hoarseness is acute laryngitis.
  
  
• The underlying cause of hoarseness can usually be diagnosed by a health care practitioner based on the patient's history and physical exam.
  
  
• The treatment for hoarseness depends on the underlying cause.
  
  
• Hoarseness can be prevented by avoiding excessive strenuous voice use and smoking cessation.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• Esophageal pH Monitoring - Esophageal pH monitoring is a procedure for measuring the reflux (regurgitation or backwash) of acid from the stomach into the esophagus. The Esophageal pH test is used to diagnose GERD.
• 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.
• Stroke - Learn about strokes symtoms like sudden numbness or weakness in the face, arms, or legs, confusion, vision problems, problems with walking or coordination, or severe headache.

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