What causes a hoarse voice?

Hoarseness usually refers to a raspy or strained voice. It may be caused by overuse of the voice, dry environments, negative emotions, acute laryngitis, vocal cord polyps, and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under the guidance of a qualified physician. The specific analysis is as follows:

1. Overuse of the voice

Speaking for prolonged periods, shouting, or singing can lead to excessive vibration and friction of the vocal cords, resulting in vocal cord congestion and swelling, which may ultimately cause hoarseness. This condition is particularly common among professionals such as speakers, teachers, and singers. Therefore, controlling speaking volume and duration, along with adequate rest, are important measures to prevent voice hoarseness.

2. Dry environment

Long-term exposure to dry, cold, or heavily polluted environments can cause the laryngeal mucosa to become dry and congested, reducing the elasticity and resilience of the vocal cords and leading to hoarseness. Maintaining a humid and clean indoor environment is an effective way to protect the voice.

3. Negative emotions

Negative emotions such as anxiety and tension may indirectly affect the normal function of the vocal cords by influencing the nervous and endocrine systems, potentially causing hoarseness. Maintaining a positive mindset and emotional stability is also crucial for preventing and managing hoarseness.

4. Acute laryngitis

Acute laryngitis is typically caused by a cold or bacterial infection. The inflammatory response leads to congestion and swelling of the laryngeal mucosa, impairing normal vocal cord vibration and resulting in hoarseness. It is often accompanied by symptoms such as coughing, sputum production, and throat pain. Treatment may include medications such as amoxicillin capsules, ribavirin capsules, and prednisone acetate tablets, used under a doctor's supervision.

5. Vocal cord polyps

Vocal cord polyps are usually caused by improper or excessive voice use. The formation of abnormal growths or nodules on the surface of the vocal cords interferes with their normal vibration and closure, leading to symptoms such as hoarseness. Other associated symptoms may include changes in vocal range, voice fatigue, or even loss of voice. Treatment under medical guidance may involve medications such as Jinseng Kaiyin Pills, Guilin Watermelon Frost Lozenges, or budesonide suspension for inhalation.

In daily life, it is important to protect the voice by avoiding excessive vocal strain and unhealthy lifestyle habits.