If you’re suffering from hoarseness that won’t go away, Dr. Giulio Cavalli and the team at Giulio Cavalli Medical in Pittsfield, MA, are here to help you find relief.
Are You Dealing with Hoarseness?
Just about everyone has dealt with a hoarse voice at some point in their lives, as it can be caused by so many different factors. When it happens, you want to know how to soothe it and whether you should see a doctor. Below, Dr. Cavalli and the team at Giulio Cavalli Medical in Pittsfield, MA, provide a quick guide about hoarseness to answer these questions and more.
What Causes a Hoarse Throat?
In short, a person becomes hoarse when something is impacting their vocal cords. In many cases, it occurs due to seasonal allergies or simply overusing your voice, like when you are cheering for your favorite sports team.
Acid reflux can also impact the vocal cords, as can stress and smoking. In some more serious cases, it can be caused by a neurological disease like Parkinson’s, polyps, or a paralyzed vocal fold.
When allergies, stress, overuse, or similar factors are the issue, rest, staying hydrated, and even tea and honey can provide relief. However, if your hoarse throat does not get better with such conservative measures and is still present after a couple of weeks, it’s time to see an ENT specialist.
How Can an ENT Specialist Help?
The key to successful treatment is first determining what is causing your hoarse voice. This typically begins with gathering information about your symptoms, lifestyle, and medical history. The doctor can then determine which diagnostic resources to use, such as a laryngoscope to help view the larynx, a laryngeal biopsy, or a CT scan.
After a thorough examination and any necessary testing, your ENT doctor can determine the best course of action. Treatment may include a variety of techniques, such as lifestyle changes, medication, and, in some cases, surgery. However, in most cases, conservative approaches provide the desired results.
Receive personalized care to treat your hoarseness by calling (413) 443-6116 to schedule an appointment with Dr. Cavalli at Giulio Cavalli Medical in Pittsfield, MA, today.