Ear, Nose, and Throat Disorders
Question #7099
37 days ago
54

vocal cords - #7099

Anonymously

I’ve been having trouble with my vocal cords lately, and I don’t know what’s causing it. My voice feels weak, and sometimes I lose it completely after talking too much. Could this be vocal strain, or is it something more serious? I don’t scream or sing loudly, but I do talk a lot for work. Could overuse be damaging my vocal cords, or is this more likely from something like acid reflux? I’ve heard GERD can irritate the vocal cords—how does that happen? I also get a sore throat often, but it’s not from a cold. Could my vocal cords be inflamed? If so, what’s the best way to heal them? I tried drinking warm tea and resting my voice, but the problem keeps coming back. Should I see an ENT, or is this something that will go away on its own? Also, what tests do doctors use to check the vocal cords—is it just looking down my throat, or do they need a camera? Lastly, are there any exercises to strengthen the vocal cords? I don’t want to damage my voice permanently. If anyone has dealt with vocal issues, what helped you recover?

Vocal cords
Voice loss
Throat irritation
Ent specialist
Vocal strain
Acid reflux
Hoarseness
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Doctors’ responses

Dr. Evgeny Arsentev
I am a highly qualified medical professional with over 15 years of experience in General Medicine. My expertise spans diagnosing and treating a wide range of conditions, providing evidence-based care, and mentoring junior doctors. I am dedicated to ensuring patient well-being through a combination of clinical skills and compassionate care.
37 days ago
Based on what you've described, it could be vocal strain, especially if you're talking a lot for work. Overuse of the vocal cords, like talking for long periods, can cause inflammation and weakness, leading to a hoarse or weak voice. GERD (acid reflux) can also contribute to vocal issues, as stomach acid can irritate the vocal cords, causing inflammation and discomfort. This is often referred to as "silent reflux," and it doesn’t always cause typical heartburn symptoms. If the problem persists, it’s a good idea to see an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) doctor. They can examine your vocal cords with a laryngoscopy, which involves using a small camera to view your throat and vocal cords. This helps determine if there's inflammation, nodules, or any other underlying issues. In terms of recovery, resting your voice is important, but it may also help to stay hydrated and avoid irritants like smoking or excessive talking. If GERD is contributing, managing acid reflux with lifestyle changes or medication might be necessary. You might also benefit from vocal exercises that can help strengthen your voice and improve endurance. A speech therapist or vocal coach can guide you through exercises designed to protect and strengthen the vocal cords.
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