Reo whango, reo ngaro rānei (mate paeoro) Hoarse or lost voice (laryngitis)
Hoarse or lost voice happens when there is a problem with your vocal cords, which are the moving parts of your voice box (larynx). This can make your voice sound croaky, strained or weak.
Causes of hoarse or lost voice
Hoarse or lost voice (laryngitis) is usually caused by a virus. Often, it is part of another illness, such as:
- influenza (the flu)
- tonsillitis
- a sore throat.
Rarely, it is caused by a bacterial infection.
If your hoarse voice lasts longer than 3 weeks, it might be due to something else, such as:
- irritated vocal cords (with overuse of your voice)
- an allergy
- stomach acid, if it escapes upwards from your stomach (called reflux, heartburn or indigestion)
- a lump on or near your vocal cords.
Symptoms of hoarse or lost voice
Laryngitis can make your voice sound:
- croaky
- strained
- weak.
Other symptoms of laryngitis are:
- a sore throat
- dry cough
- mild fever
- a constant need to clear your throat.
Treating hoarse or lost voice
Laryngitis usually gets better by itself within a week, without any treatment.
You do not usually need antibiotics as they do not work against a virus.
If your hoarse voice does not go away within 3 weeks, you should see your healthcare provider.
Self care with hoarse or lost voice
There are some things you can do when you have a hoarse or lost voice.
- Rest your voice — speak softly and as little as possible.
- Do not whisper — whispering can strain your voice.
- Drink plenty of fluids (water is best).
- Take simple pain relief tablets such as paracetamol or ibuprofen.
- Avoid smoking.
Clinical review
This content was written by HealthInfo clinical advisers. It has been adapted for Health Information and Services.