What causes a sudden loss of voice and severe pain in the throat overnight, and what should be done about it?

Sudden hoarseness and severe throat pain overnight may be caused by excessive voice use, upper respiratory tract infection, pharyngitis, tonsillitis, or bronchitis. It is recommended to treat based on the underlying cause.

1. Excessive Voice Use

Overusing the voice can lead to inflammation of the vocal cords, causing sudden hoarseness and throat pain. It is recommended to give the vocal cords adequate rest and avoid loud talking or singing. Maintaining sufficient fluid intake helps keep the throat mucosa moist and alleviates discomfort.

2. Upper Respiratory Tract Infection

When immunity decreases, the upper respiratory tract becomes susceptible to viral infections such as adenovirus, rhinovirus, or respiratory syncytial virus, leading to upper respiratory tract infection and resulting in the aforementioned symptoms, often accompanied by sore throat and nasal congestion. It is advised to get sufficient rest, maintain a light diet, and drink plenty of fluids. If necessary, take medications such as Ammonium Caffeine Huangmin Capsules, Ganmaoling Granules, or Ganmao Qingre Granules under medical guidance to relieve symptoms.

3. Pharyngitis

Infection with bacteria, viruses, or exposure to high temperatures, dust, or irritating gases may irritate the pharynx, leading to pharyngitis. Patients may experience hoarseness upon waking, throat pain, and phlegm production. It is recommended to take antibiotics such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Azithromycin Granules, or Cefalexin Capsules as prescribed by a doctor to eliminate pathogens, control inflammation, and prevent disease progression.

4. Tonsillitis

When resistance is low, pathogens can multiply rapidly and invade the tonsils, causing tonsillitis, which may result in these symptoms along with throat pain and fever. For bacterial infections, antibiotics such as Amoxicillin Granules, Azithromycin Capsules, or Cefradine Capsules may be taken as directed by a physician to alleviate symptoms.

5. Bronchitis

This condition typically causes chronic nonspecific inflammation of the trachea, bronchial mucosa, and surrounding tissues, leading to severe coughing. If prolonged coughing remains uncontrolled, it may result in sudden hoarseness, dry throat, and throat pain. It is recommended to take antibiotics such as Penicillin V Potassium Tablets, Amoxicillin Capsules, or Cefradine Capsules under a doctor's supervision to prevent further disease progression.

It is advisable to seek medical attention for a thorough examination to determine the exact cause and receive appropriate treatment under medical guidance. During treatment, drink plenty of water, get adequate rest, and consume a light, easily digestible diet to help relieve symptoms.