Hoarse? Or Horse?

Our veterinarian knows best, here’s what she has to say:

Courtesy of mushypony.com

Sometimes, no amount of Halls can fix a hoarse voice – and 1 in 3 people have had hoarseness at some point. It’s usually temporary and due to a virus or screaming too much (karaoke, Metallica, put the two together). If it occurs with a cough or cold, be reassured that it’s the virus generally causing the inflammation and there’s no treatment except to rest your voice (i.e. don’t talk) and wait it out for the next few days. So when should you worry?  If it lasts for more than a couple of weeks then here are some concerns:

• Chronic postnasal drip, heartburn or smoking can cause irritation of the vocal cords.
• Singing or public speaking can cause voice strain.
• Growths on the vocal cords can be benign (polyps) or cancerous.

So that means it’s time to check it out. If the cords look good with a laryngoscope then maybe all you need is voice therapy (4-8 sessions) to prevent strain. Then your voice will be sounding less like a frog’s you wish you could choke.

- The Veterinarian.