Customer question:
What helps when we are voiceless? Anonymous customer's question
Pharmacist's answer:
You can try home remedies to alleviate the symptoms if you are voiceless or have a hoarse voice. If your voice loss persists for over a few days or your symptoms worsen, talk to your doctor. You must seek medical attention if the loss of voice is accompanied by other severe symptoms, such as difficulty breathing or a high fever.
Here are some simple tips:
- Drink plenty of fluids: drinking warm water or decaffeinated herbal teas can help keep the lining of your throat hydrated.
- Humidifying the air: using a humidifier in the room where you spend a lot of time can help prevent the mucous membrane in the throat from drying out.
- Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke: smoking and secondhand smoke can irritate the throat, so avoid smoke.
- Gargling with salt water: Warm salt water can help relieve irritation.
- Avoid using your voice: try to talk as little as possible and avoid shouting or singing to give your vocal cords a rest.
- Suck on throat lozenges or drink syrup: Throat lozenges or syrups containing ingredients such as honey and lemon can help relieve symptoms.
- Warm compresses: applying warm compresses to the neck can help relax tense muscles and ease discomfort.
- Inhalation of steam: Inhalation of steam can help moisten the airways. You can sit over a bowl of hot water or use a humidifier.
- Vocal rest: try to speak as little as possible and give your vocal cords a rest.
Can loss of voice be a reason to see a doctor?
Yes, a severe loss of voice may be a reason to see a doctor, especially if it lasts for a long time or is severe. Your doctor can assess your symptoms, identify possible causes, and recommend appropriate treatment. There are several reasons why voice loss might require medical attention. Inflammation of the larynx caused by viruses or bacteria is a common cause of voice loss. Your doctor may prescribe treatment if the infection is bacterial or advise you on relieving symptoms of a viral infection.
Persistent voice loss or repeated episodes of voice loss may indicate problems such as vocal polyps or nodules. Problems with the vocal cords may require specialized treatment, including speech therapy. Acid reflux can also cause throat irritation and loss of voice. Loss of voice can rarely indicate more severe health problems, such as tumors or neuromuscular diseases.
If the loss of voice lasts over a few days, consult a doctor. Also, seek medical help if other symptoms, such as breathing problems, chest pain, or a high fever, accompany the loss of voice.
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