What are the causes of loss of voice in the throat?
Nov 28, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lu Cheng
Introduction
In general, loss of voice may be caused by factors such as vocal strain from overuse, dry or irritating environments, acute laryngitis, vocal cord polyps, or reflux laryngopharyngitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive symptomatic treatment under a doctor's guidance. In daily life, avoid spicy and excessively hot foods, and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins.
Generally, loss of voice may be caused by factors such as vocal strain from overuse, dry or irritating environments, acute laryngitis, vocal cord polyps, or reflux laryngitis. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly, identify the underlying cause, and receive appropriate treatment under a doctor's guidance. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:
1. Vocal strain from overuse: Prolonged loud speaking, singing, or shouting can lead to excessive vibration of the vocal cords, causing congestion and swelling, which results in voice loss. Immediately stop using your voice to allow the vocal cords to rest fully. Drink plenty of lukewarm water and avoid stimulants such as coffee and strong tea.
2. Dry or irritating environment: Long-term exposure to dry, dusty environments can dehydrate the throat mucosa, reducing vocal cord elasticity and leading to voice loss. Use a humidifier indoors to maintain humidity between 50% and 60%. Wear a dust-protective mask when outdoors and rinse your mouth with saline solution to moisturize the throat.
3. Acute laryngitis: Viral or bacterial infections cause acute inflammation of the laryngeal mucosa, resulting in swollen and congested vocal cords and subsequent voice loss, often accompanied by sore throat and cough. Patients may take medications such as cefixime dispersible tablets, prednisone tablets, and budesonide suspension as prescribed, along with nebulized inhalation therapy.
4. Vocal cord polyps: Long-term improper voice use or chronic inflammation may lead to polyp formation on the vocal cords, interfering with normal vibration and causing persistent voice loss. In early stages, medications such as Jinsheng Spreading Pills, Huangshi Voice Pills, and inhaled budesonide suspension may be used under medical supervision. If ineffective, surgical removal via microlaryngoscopy (vocal cord polypectomy) can restore normal vocal cord function.
5. Reflux laryngitis: Stomach acid flowing back into the throat irritates the vocal cords, causing inflammatory swelling and voice loss, often accompanied by acid regurgitation and heartburn. Patients may take omeprazole enteric-coated capsules, domperidone tablets, and hydrotalcite chewable tablets as directed to reduce acid reflux and protect the vocal cords.
In daily life, avoid spicy or excessively hot foods and consume more fresh fruits and vegetables rich in vitamins. Develop healthy voice-use habits and avoid speaking loudly in noisy environments. Maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late to strengthen immunity and prevent laryngeal diseases.
