Hoarse Voice: How Hampshire ENT Specialists Can Help
A hoarse or croaky voice is common, especially after a cold or heavy voice use. Most cases improve within a couple of weeks, but if hoarseness persists, it could signal an underlying problem that needs expert attention.
At Hampshire ENT clinics, our consultants specialise in diagnosing and treating the full range of voice disorders, from simple vocal strain to more complex laryngeal conditions.
🗣️ What Causes a Hoarse Voice?
The voice comes from your vocal cords, located in the larynx (voice box). When these delicate tissues become irritated or inflamed, the voice can sound rough, weak, or breathy.
Common causes include:
Viral laryngitis (after a cold or flu)
Voice strain from shouting or prolonged talking
Acid reflux (silent reflux or LPR)
Allergies or postnasal drip
Smoking and alcohol
Thyroid or hormonal changes
Vocal cord nodules, cysts, or polyps
More serious conditions, such as early laryngeal cancer (especially in smokers or drinkers)
🩺 When Should You See an ENT Specialist?
You should seek a specialist opinion if:
Hoarseness lasts more than 3 weeks
You notice pain, difficulty swallowing, or a neck lump
Your voice suddenly changes without an obvious cause
You are a singer, teacher, or professional voice user with ongoing symptoms
An ENT specialist can perform a flexible nasendoscopy, a quick, painless examination using a small camera, to look directly at the vocal cords.
💡 Treatments Available at Hampshire ENT Clinics
Treatment depends on the underlying cause but may include:
Voice rest and hydration for acute laryngitis
Speech and language therapy to correct voice strain or misuse
Medication for reflux or allergies
Microlaryngoscopy or laser surgery to remove vocal cord lesions
Smoking cessation and lifestyle advice
Our goal is always to restore your natural, comfortable voice as quickly and safely as possible.
🎶 Specialist Voice Care in Hampshire
Hampshire ENT clinics provide care for singers, teachers, and other voice professionals who depend on their voice for work. We work closely with local speech and language therapists and voice specialists to ensure tailored, multidisciplinary care.
👉 If you’ve noticed a hoarse voice that’s not improving, contact Hampshire ENT clinics for a detailed assessment and personalised treatment plan.