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Hoarseness (Dysphonia)

Change in voice quality due to abnormal vocal fold vibration that requires evaluation when persistent.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

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This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department. Book Appointment →

What is Hoarseness (Dysphonia)?

Dysphonia is any alteration in voice quality, pitch, loudness or vocal effort that interferes with communication or affects voice-related quality of life. Hoarseness specifically describes a rough, raspy or breathy voice resulting from abnormal vibration of the vocal folds.

Etiologies are diverse and include acute laryngitis (most common, typically viral), chronic laryngitis (smoking, reflux, allergies), benign vocal fold lesions (nodules, polyps, cysts, Reinke's edema), vocal fold paralysis (recurrent laryngeal nerve injury after thyroid or cardiothoracic surgery, idiopathic, malignancy), neurological disorders (spasmodic dysphonia, Parkinson disease, ALS), systemic diseases (hypothyroidism, rheumatoid arthritis, sarcoidosis) and laryngeal carcinoma.

Persistent hoarseness lasting more than 2-4 weeks, especially in smokers and patients over 40, mandates laryngoscopy because squamous cell carcinoma of the larynx most commonly presents with hoarseness. Red flags include hemoptysis, odynophagia, dysphagia, neck mass, ear pain and stridor.

Symptoms

Rough or raspy voice
Breathy or weak voice
Loss of vocal range
Vocal fatigue with prolonged speaking
Throat clearing and dryness
Globus sensation
Cough or aspiration in vocal fold paralysis
Voice breaks or pitch changes
Aphonia in severe cases

Risk Factors

Tobacco smoking
Heavy alcohol consumption
Vocal abuse and overuse (singers, teachers, coaches)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease
Chronic allergies and postnasal drip
Recent neck or chest surgery
Inhaled corticosteroid use
Hypothyroidism
Age over 40
Occupational exposure to dust or chemicals

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Hoarseness lasting more than 2 weeks
  • Hoarseness in a current or former smoker
  • Coughing up blood
  • Pain on swallowing
  • Difficulty swallowing or breathing
  • Audible stridor
  • New neck mass
  • Ear pain accompanying voice change
  • Sudden voice loss after surgery

Treatment Methods

01
Voice rest and hydration
02
Smoking cessation and alcohol moderation
03
Anti-reflux therapy with proton pump inhibitors
04
Voice therapy with speech-language pathologist
05
Microlaryngoscopic surgery for benign lesions
06
Laryngoplasty or injection medialization for vocal fold paralysis
07
Botulinum toxin for spasmodic dysphonia
08
Treatment of underlying systemic disease
09
Oncologic management for laryngeal carcinoma
10
Long-term follow-up with serial laryngoscopy

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

Learn About KBB (Kulak Burun Boğaz) Department

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.