Are You Struggling With Hoarseness?

Are You Struggling With Hoarseness?

It's common to sometimes feel a touch of hoarseness. A condition characterized by a harsh sounding voice and a scratchy dry throat. But if your symptoms have not subsided after more than a week, it may be time to seek the help of a professional, like your local experts, Dr. Jason Hanson, Dr. Jonathan Lusardi, and Dr. Janet Napoli of Northwest Otolaryngology in Bridgeton and O'Fallon, MO.

Treatment and Prevention

For a lot of patients, hoarseness will clear up with time and some of the following advice may help speed up the process or at least ease your symptoms.
Caffeinated and alcoholic drinks can cause you to dehydrate when what you want to do is the opposite.

Lozenges and liquids can help with the dryness either by stimulating salivation or directly moistening your throat. But perhaps the most important step toward healing is rest, as is its overuse that often leads to hoarseness.

Avoid talking as much as possible, and even whispering can be detrimental as it actually strains your cords more than talking would. Forcefully clearing your throat can also similarly cause damage, worsening your inflammation.

Steam from after a hot shower can help with the discomfort. So can a humidifier if you have access to one.

Because respiratory infections are a common cause you should take steps to avoid them, with simple acts such as washing your hands regularly.
Allergens also play a role, so try to limit your exposure and keep in contact with your doctor about what else you can do to keep your allergies in check.
Smoking and secondhand smoke can dry and irritate your throat, so it's recommended that you seek help to stop, for this and other health benefits.

Treatment for Hoarseness in Bridgeton and O'Fallon, MO

If you've taken some of the steps mentioned above and it's been about 10 days without any noticeable change get in contact with your doctor. They will diagnose the cause of your symptoms in case it is something that requires more in-depth treatment. So don't wait too long, as early intervention is important.

Make an appointment today at Northwest Otolaryngology in Bridgeton and O'Fallon, MO, by dialing (314) 291-5307 and (636) 379-6006 respectively.