When to see a doctor
Signs to watch for
- Hoarseness, a rough voice or loss of voice lasting more than 4 weeks.
- A voice that tires quickly, breathy speech, lost high notes (teachers, singers, heavy voice users).
- Throat clearing, a lump-in-the-throat feeling or chronic cough suspected to be reflux.
- Hoarseness with breathing difficulty, trouble swallowing, coughing blood, weight loss or a neck lump.
- Hoarseness after neck or chest surgery or after a breathing tube.
- Hoarseness in children that does not go away.
Process
Examination and treatment
- 1The doctor asks about occupation, voice use, smoking, reflux and other conditions.
- 2Laryngoscopy with a thin scope through the nose or mouth shows the shape and movement of both vocal cords.
- 3Treatment follows the cause: voice rest and voice therapy, diet and lifestyle changes for reflux, and treatment of nose, sinus and throat problems that contribute.
- 4For polyps, growths or cysts of the vocal cords, or suspicious findings, the doctor advises voice microsurgery or further tests to confirm the diagnosis.
Before you come
Good to know before the visit
- Note when the hoarseness started and how the voice changes during the day.
- Tell the doctor about your job, smoking, alcohol and current medicines.
- Do not use long courses of antibiotics or reflux medicines before the vocal cords have been examined.
Q&A
Frequently asked questions
How long should hoarseness last before I see a doctor?
Hoarseness that does not clear within 4 weeks should have a laryngoscopy. See a doctor sooner if there is breathing or swallowing trouble, coughing blood, weight loss or a neck lump.
Do vocal nodules need surgery?
Most nodules are treated with voice therapy and changes in voice use. Surgery is considered only when enough therapy has not helped.
Does laryngoscopy hurt?
It takes only a few minutes and usually causes mild discomfort. The doctor can apply a local numbing spray first.
Other services
ENT services
Clinic
Visit us in person
138 Đường Văn Tiến Dũng, Phước Hải, Nha Trang, Khánh Hòa
Tuesday & Thursday17:30 – 19:30
Sunday08:30 – 11:30
Other daysClosed
Because hospital duty schedules can change, please call or message before you visit.
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