Hoarseness is a change in voice, where the sound becomes rough, deep, difficult to hear, and loses its clarity or smoothness. Individuals often try but struggle to produce clear sounds. This symptom can affect both adults and children. If you have been hoarse for nearly a month without improvement, it is advisable to consult an otolaryngologist (ENT doctor).

Many factors can lead to prolonged hoarseness. Common causes include speaking too much, too loudly, or continuously, and alcohol consumption. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), inhaling allergens that irritate the vocal cords, and vocal cord paralysis following a stroke can also result in a rough, difficult-to-hear voice. Hoarseness can also signal underlying conditions such as laryngitis, pharyngitis, or vocal cord lesions like nodules, polyps, cysts, or paralysis. In more serious cases, it might indicate laryngeal cancer or lung cancer.

Doctor Hang (left) performs surgery on a patient with vocal cord polyps. Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Minor instances of hoarseness may resolve within a few days with proper care. This includes limiting speech, staying hydrated, avoiding irritants, refraining from cold or spicy foods, keeping the throat warm, and gargling with salt water. However, if hoarseness persists for nearly a month without improvement, seeking medical attention from an ENT doctor is crucial. You may undergo a laryngoscopy to identify the cause, rule out any malignant conditions, and determine an appropriate treatment plan.

Treatment varies significantly depending on the underlying cause of hoarseness. For benign, non-cancerous causes, patients are often treated with medication. This is typically combined with lifestyle adjustments such as humidifying indoor air, limiting exposure to allergens, and avoiding alcohol and smoking to help manage symptoms.

When hoarseness is caused by vocal cord nodules, cysts, or polyps, doctors may recommend surgery. Hoarseness linked to cancer usually requires more intensive treatments, which can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and palliative care.

Master of Science, Level II Specialist Doctor Tran Thi Thuy Hang

Head of Ear, Nose, and Throat Department

Ear, Nose, and Throat Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City