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Why Am I Losing My Voice? Common Causes and Solutions

Alan Lucks | MD

Medically reviewed by Alan Lucks | MD, Alan Lucks MDPC Private Practice - New York on July 19th, 2023.

Key Takeaways

  • Vocal cord inflammation from viral infections, acid reflux (GERD), or allergies causes the majority of temporary hoarseness cases, with symptoms typically resolving within 7-10 days.

  • Cigarette smoke increases voice disorder risk by 300% due to chronic irritation that promotes polyp and nodule formation on delicate vocal tissue.

  • Overuse from excessive talking, shouting, or singing at unnatural pitch creates vocal muscle fatigue—complete voice rest for 24-48 hours allows inflamed tissue to heal.

  • Thyroid disorders, particularly hypothyroidism, can cause persistent hoarseness by affecting vocal cord muscle tone and fluid retention around the larynx.

  • Any hoarseness lasting beyond 2 weeks requires laryngoscopy examination to rule out laryngeal cancer, especially when accompanied by difficulty swallowing or neck pain.

Losing your voice can be frustrating and even alarming. If you've noticed that your normally clear voice has become hoarse or raspy, you may be wondering what's causing the problem. In this article, we'll explore some of the most common reasons for voice loss and provide tips on how to treat and prevent hoarseness.

Common Causes of Voice Loss

1. Colds and Allergies

When you have a cold or allergies, your throat can become inflamed and sore, causing your vocal cords to swell. This swelling affects the way your vocal cords vibrate, resulting in hoarseness. To treat voice loss due to a cold or allergies, rest your voice, drink plenty of fluids, and consider taking antihistamines if allergies are the culprit.

2. Overuse of Your Voice

Just like other muscles in your body, overusing the muscles that help you speak can lead to fatigue, strain, and injury. Some common mistakes that can cause voice overuse include:

  • Speaking, singing, yelling, or coughing too much

  • Using a pitch that's higher or lower than normal when you talk

  • Cradling your phone between your head and shoulder

3. Smoking

Cigarette smoke irritates your vocal cords, which can lead to long-term voice problems. Studies show that smokers are about three times more likely to have a voice disorder than non-smokers. Smoking can also raise your risk of developing vocal cord polyps, which can cause your voice to become low, breathy, and hoarse.

Why Am I Losing My Voice? Common Causes and Solutions

4. Medical Conditions

Certain medical conditions can also contribute to voice loss, including:

  • Rheumatoid arthritis: This autoimmune disease can affect the tiny joints in your face and throat, leading to breathing and voice problems.

  • Thyroid disorders: An underactive thyroid or growths on the thyroid can cause hoarseness and coughing.

  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid washing back up into the esophagus can irritate your vocal cords, throat, and esophagus, causing hoarseness and excess mucus.

  • Laryngitis: This condition, which can be acute or chronic, occurs when your vocal cords become inflamed, leading to voice loss.

  • Infection of the larynx: Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can cause inflammation and swelling of the vocal cords, resulting in hoarseness or voice loss. Vocal cord nodules, polyps, or cysts: These non-cancerous growths can develop on your vocal cords, often due to voice overuse.

  • Vocal cord nodules, polyps, or cysts: These non-cancerous growths can develop on your vocal cords, often due to voice overuse.

  • Nervous system diseases: Conditions like Parkinson's disease can affect the muscles in your face and throat, making it difficult to control the muscles needed for speech.

  • Laryngeal cancer: Long-term hoarseness or voice loss may be a sign of throat cancer, along with pain when swallowing, ear pain, trouble breathing, and a lump in the neck.

When to See a Doctor

If your voice problems last for more than two weeks, it's essential to see a doctor. They can help diagnose the underlying cause of your hoarseness and recommend the appropriate treatment.

By understanding the common causes of voice loss and taking steps to protect your vocal cords, you can help keep your voice healthy and strong. Remember to rest your voice when needed, avoid smoking, and seek medical attention if your hoarseness persists.

For more information on voice disorders and their treatments, visit:

The Bottom Line

Most cases resolve with voice rest and treating underlying causes like infections or acid reflux within 1-2 weeks. Seek immediate medical evaluation for persistent hoarseness beyond 14 days, as early detection of serious conditions significantly improves outcomes. If you're experiencing ongoing voice changes, Doctronic can help connect you with appropriate care.

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