Voice Care Tips Series

When to Seek Medical Care for Voice

20th May 2024 (update)

Please read this one!

Many people understand how sounding good can help with many aspects of life, and my work helps you to do this. Another key aspect of my work is to teach people how to look after their voices so that they can continue to sound good and keep their voices healthy and strong. They also know when they need to seek medical support for their voice. Follow these voice tips I will be sharing over all the newsletters to get more information on what you can do to take good care of your voice - and firstly - the most important one....

Hoarseness is not part of ANY job.

Listen to your body and visit your GP if you have any concerns about your voice at all, especially if you are using your voice frequently within your job. Hoarseness is not part of ANY job. If you have had issues or discomfort in your voice lasting for more than 2 weeks, including after a cough or cold, seek medical advice.

Some examples of voice changes can include things such as:

• Hoarseness - where the voice sounds hoarse, rough, raspy, or has a breathy quality to it.

• Vocal Fatigue – where your voice tires easily with use, requiring more effort to speak.

• Loss of Vocal Range – having more trouble reaching high or low notes that were previously accessible.

• Voice Breaks or Cracks - unexpected breaks or cracks in the voice, especially during speaking or singing.

• Pain or Discomfort – this includes pain in the throat, neck, or larynx when speaking or swallowing.

• Persistent Cough or Throat Clearing - frequent need to cough or clear the throat, especially when speaking. (This is common and might indicate irritation or reflux affecting the vocal folds – as with all the other points, visit your GP to seek medical advice).

• Changes in Volume - difficulty controlling volume, either becoming consistently softer or unable to project the voice.

• Breathiness or Weakness - where the voice sounds breathy or weak, lacking power.

• Lump in the Throat Sensation - having a feeling of a lump in the throat that doesn't go away.

• Difficulty or Discomfort Swallowing

• Persistent Dryness or Irritation in the Throat

Please note that some of the above can happen with or without pain. If any of these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is important to seek evaluation by a Laryngologist (ENT specialist). Make an appointment with your GP to seek support and advice. Early diagnosis and treatment can prevent potential complications and promote better vocal health.

If you would like to learn more about how I can help you avoid hoarseness, or how to get your voice strong again after recovery (and having seen a laryngologist and possibly after voice therapy discharge), please contact me with details. I will be in touch to let you know how best I can support you or your team.

I work on a one-to-one basis and run group workshops designed to cover these and other areas. Get in touch to find out more. Send a message to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call me on 07857 300362.