Lost Your Voice? Here's What Could Be Behind That Hoarse Sound! | Health Live

Imagine waking up one morning and everything seems fine, but as soon as you open your mouth to speak, your voice sounds hoarse or rough, or you experience a cracking sound when you try to speak. This condition is commonly referred to as a "hoarse voice" or "voice loss." It is often caused by colds, coughs, throat inflammation, or other health conditions. However, at times, it can be more serious. People often resort to home remedies to restore their voice. Today, we’ll explain why someone might lose their voice. Medically, losing your voice is known as "laryngitis," which occurs due to inflammation of the epiglottis or the voice box. According to Mayo Clinic, the voice box contains vocal cords, which usually open and close, and through their motion and vibration, sound is produced. The vocal cords open to allow air in and then vibrate as air is pushed out, which generates sound. Mayo Clinic explains that when there is swelling or irritation in the vocal cords, it disturbs the sound produced by the airflow, leading to a hoarse or lost voice. In some cases of laryngitis, the voice can completely disappear, and this can be painful. A loss of voice is usually a sign that something is wrong with the body. It is often caused by viral infections, severe flu, or even COVID-19. Allergies can also cause inflammation of the vocal cords. While voice loss is typically linked to less serious conditions, it can sometimes be caused by injuries. Overuse of the voice, such as excessive talking or shouting, can also lead to hoarseness. If the issue resolves within a week or two, there’s no need to worry. However, if the problem persists for a longer period, it is essential to see a doctor as it could be related to serious issues such as thyroid problems or even cancer.