Customer question:
What causes long-term hoarseness? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
Long-term hoarseness can result from a variety of causes, including benign and more serious health problems. If hoarseness persists for more than two weeks or if additional symptoms such as pain, difficulty swallowing, bleeding, or weight loss occur, it is important to see a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.
Common causes of long-term hoarseness are:
- Vocal strain: Prolonged use of the voice, shouting, singing, or talking in a noisy environment can lead to strain and inflammation of the vocal cords.
- Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, such as colds, flu, or laryngitis, can cause inflammation of the throat and vocal cords, leading to hoarseness.
- Reflux disease: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can irritate cords to stop irritation and acid backing into the esophagus.
- Allergies: Allergic reactions to dust, pollen, mold, or other allergens can cause inflammation and irritation of the throat.
- Smoking: Tobacco smoking and exposure to cigarette smoke can permanently damage the vocal cords and cause hoarseness.
- Polyps and nodules on the vocal cords: Benign growths on the vocal cords, such as polyps or nodules, can affect the voice and cause hoarseness.
- Larynx cancer: In rare cases, persistent hoarseness can indicate a more severe condition, such as cancer of the larynx or vocal cords.
- Neurological disorders: Conditions such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis can affect the nerves that control the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness.
- Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes, especially in women during menopause, can affect the voice and cause hoarseness.
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