When the voice is hoarse, it may sound breathy, raspy, strained, or there may be changes in volume (loudness) or pitch (how high or low the voice is). The changes in sound are typically caused by disorders related to the vocal folds, which are the sound-producing parts of the voice box (larynx). Fortunately, most of the causes are not serious and tend to go away on their own.
Causes of Hoarseness
- Cold or viral infection of the upper respiratory tract
- When you speak for long stretches of time in an inappropriate manner or too loudly, you are engaging in voice abuse.
- Stomach acid irritating the vocal folds when it enters the swallowing tube is known as gastroesophageal reflux.
- Smoking
- diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, thyroid issues, neurological conditions, allergies, and voice box trauma
Diagnosis
It is necessary to obtain a thorough medical and hoarseness history.
After that, the voice box and surrounding tissue will be inspected with a mirror or a laryngoscope, a tiny, flexible instrument with lighting that is inserted in the back of the throat.
After that, voice quality is assessed.
Depending on the results of the physical examination, a doctor may order lab tests like a biopsy, x-rays, or tests for thyroid function.
Prevention
- Quit smoking,
- Avoid substances like alcohol and caffeine that dehydrate the body.
- Steer clear of passive (second-hand) smoking.
- Drink plenty of water
- Humidify your home
- Aim to maintain a healthy diet and stay away from alcohol and spicy foods.
- Avoid speaking aloud or for too long.
- If your voice is hurt or hoarse, get professional assistance.
Homeopathic Treatment of Hoarseness
Argentum NitricumThe person who needs this remedy may have a fear of public speaking or be extremely anxious before important events. They may also experience an anticipatory type of anxiety. – A feeling of rawness in the larynx, with this hoarseness, and possibly thick sputum. It may be worse when coughing, swallowing, or speaking.
Arnica– Hoarseness that develops as a result of excessive shouting, singing, or screaming; keep in mind that arnica is a wonderful remedy for that bruised feeling, physically or emotionally; therefore, if you think of the hoarseness as the vocal cords having been severely bruised and exhausted, this is the remedy you need.
Arum Triphyllum –Like all of these remedies, it is better to rest when the voice changes pitch or becomes difficult to control. It gets worse when trying to sing or talk. Loss of voice when exposed to NW wind. Constant hawking of phlegm and clearing throat.
CausticumThe larynx is raw and painful to touch, and hoarseness of voice is worse in the morning and when stooping. This person will feel better after drinking something cold.
PhosphorusThey may experience a dry ticking cough that gets worse when they go outside or when the weather changes, and their larynx is painful and raw, making it difficult for them to speak. Hoarseness is worse in the morning and evening.
Rhus-ToxThis hoarseness is worse in the beginning but can improve after talking for a while. You might have a feeling of coldness in the larynx when breathing. Hoarseness can be from overstraining the voice. When thinking of this remedy, you can always think of something that is stiff in the beginning and then gets better with movement.
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