Hoarseness or changing voice

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Throat anatomy

The physical examination will include a detailed examination of the mouth and throat.

Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:

• Blood tests such as CBC or blood differential
• Throat examination with small mirror
• X-rays of the neck   or a CT scan
• Laryngoscopy (visualization of the larynx with a laryngoscope)
• Throat culture

Intervention:

Thickened cords, polyps, and benign nodules can all be treated surgically or with a laser. Cancers are sometimes completely cured by either surgery, radiation, or both. Vocal cords that are accidentally damaged while administering anesthesia or during surgery can often be repaired.

Other conditions may benefit from voice rest and speech therapy. Reflux laryngitis is treated with anti-reflux measures (avoiding spicy and fried food, reducing coffee intake) and acid-reducing drugs.

Stopping smoking helps in early recovery from laryngitis and other conditions causing hoarseness.

Review Date: 08/03/2005
Reviewed By: Alden J. Pearl M.D., Clinical Assistant Professor, Department of Otolaryngology, State University of New York Health Science Center at Brooklyn, Brooklyn, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.