Hoarseness is described as having difficulty producing sound when trying to speak, or a change in the pitch or quality of the voice. The voice may sound weak, excessively breathy, scratchy, or husky.

Hoarseness is usually caused by a problem in the vocal cords. Most cases of hoarseness are associated with inflammation of the larynx (laryngitis).

Persistent hoarseness (hoarseness that lingers for weeks or months) may be caused by a variety of problems ranging from trivial to dangerous.

• Laryngitis
• Excessive use of the voice (as in shouting or singing)
• Allergies
• Inhaling irritating substances
• Excessive use of alcohol or tobacco
• Coughing (may be caused by allergies or some diseases such as bronchitis )
• In children, prolonged or excessive crying
• Viral illness
• Gastric reflux (acid from the stomach irritating the voice box)

Other causes include:

• Heavy smoking and drinking, especially in combination
• Overall weakness caused by other diseases
• Tonsillitis
• Ingestion of a caustic liquid
• Foreign body in the esophagus or trachea
• Infectious mononucleosis
• Postnasal drip
• Vocal cord nodules or paralysis (post-surgical)
• Bronchoscopy or other tests (temporary)
• Puberty
• Cancer of the voice box (laryngeal cancer)

Hoarseness may be acute or chronic, but is treated the same in most cases.

Rest and time are really the only way to cure hoarseness that is not associated with other symptoms. This kind of hoarseness is very resistant to medical therapy. Crying, shouting, and excessive talking or singing will only worsen the problem. Be patient, the healing process may take several days. Don't talk unless it is absolutely necessary and avoid whispering. Whispering can strain the vocal cords more than speaking does.

Gargling has no therapeutic effect on the vocal cords. Avoid decongestants because they dry the vocal cords and prolong irritation. If you smoke, reduce or stop smoking.

Humidifying the air with a vaporizer or drinking fluids can offer some relief.

Other underlying disorders such as bronchitis, allergies, laryngitis, or alcoholism should be treated.