Hoarseness: When a Change in Voice Needs Attention

Hoarseness — a breathy, raspy or strained voice — is common after a cold or voice strain and usually settles on its own.

However, a change in voice that lasts longer than two to three weeks should be assessed. Other reasons to seek advice include coughing blood, pain when speaking or swallowing, or a lump in the neck.

Your specialist can examine the voice box with a small camera and identify whether the change is due to inflammation, nodules, reflux or another cause.

This article is educational and not a diagnosis. Please book a consultation if you have persistent voice changes.