About Loss of Voice (Hoarseness)
Learn about the disease, illness and/or condition Loss of Voice (Hoarseness) including: symptoms, causes, treatments, contraindications and conditions at ClusterMed.info.
Loss of Voice (Hoarseness)
Loss of Voice (Hoarseness) |
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Loss of Voice (Hoarseness) InformationHoarseness facts
How are the causes of hoarseness diagnosed?A health care professional will ask the patient questions about their hoarseness and any other associated symptoms. A physical exam will focus on the head and neck. Often times, a diagnosis can be made based on this initial assessment. In some instances, a long lighted flexible tube (fiberoptic scope) will be inserted into the throat to directly visualize the vocal cords if no other cause is initially identified. Individuals with hoarseness that lasts longer than 2 to 3 weeks should have a consultation with an otolaryngologist in order to exclude any serious causes of hoarseness. How is hoarseness prevented?Hoarseness can be prevented in some instances, for example:
What are the signs and symptoms of hoarseness?Hoarseness typically gives the voice a raspy and harsh quality, though it may also cause a change in the pitch or volume of the voice. The rapidity of onset and any associated symptoms will depend on the underlying cause leading to hoarseness. What causes hoarseness?Hoarseness is generally caused by irritation of, or injury to, the vocal cords. The larynx (also referred to as the voice box), is the portion of the respiratory (breathing) tract containing the vocal cords. The cartilaginous outer wall of the larynx is commonly referred to as the "Adams apple." The vocal cords are two bands of muscle that form a "V" inside the larynx. When we sing or speak, the vocal cords vibrate and produce sound. Picture of the Larynx Hoarseness can be caused by a number of conditions. The most common cause of hoarseness is acute laryngitis (inflammation of the vocal cords) caused most often by an upper respiratory tract infection (usually viral), and less commonly from overuse or misuse of the voice (such as from yelling or singing). Other causes of hoarseness include:
What is hoarseness?Hoarseness is an abnormal change in the voice caused by a variety of conditions. The voice may have changes in pitch and volume, ranging from a deep, harsh voice to a weak, raspy voice. What is the treatment for hoarseness?The treatment for hoarseness depends on the underlying cause, for example:
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