What is hoarseness?

Hoarseness means a weakened or weak voice.

Occurrence

Hoarseness is common, but it is not usually a reason to seek medical attention. In general, only people who depend particularly on their voice for their work seek medical attention for hoarseness.

Most people have experienced hoarseness in connection with upper respiratory tract infections, such as colds or sore throat.

Hoarseness is also common with excessive use or misuse of the voice.

Regular smokers often become hoarse.

Common causes

Chronic irritation of the diaphragm, excessive use of the voice, smoking, alcohol

Candidiasis in the ostomy

Vocal cord polyps

Low metabolism

Chronic sinusitis

Medication

Throat cancer

Other causes

Who can help you?

One of our Ear, Nose and Throat specialists will be able to carry out a satisfactory examination to reach the correct diagnosis and start the appropriate treatment.

We have standardised procedures and access to state-of-the-art equipment to ensure a complete and prompt assessment of our patients. We offer the option of examining the vocal cords using a camera that is inserted into the throat. In Lysaker, we also offer the option of vocal cord examination with recording, known as stroboscopy.