The short answer
A hoarse or croaky voice is usually caused by a cold, voice strain, or reflux, and clears up within a couple of weeks. Hoarseness that lasts more than about three weeks can occasionally be a sign of cancer of the voice box or throat, so it is worth getting checked.
Most hoarseness comes from colds, voice strain, or reflux — not cancer.
Hoarseness usually clears within two weeks.
Hoarseness lasting more than about three weeks is worth checking.
Risk is higher for people who smoke or drink heavily.
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The full explanation.
The simple version
A hoarse voice is usually a temporary nuisance from a cold, cheering at a game, or strain, and it clears up on its own. But because ongoing hoarseness can occasionally signal cancer of the voice box (larynx) or throat, hoarseness that lingers is worth checking.
What usually causes hoarseness
Common causes include viral infections (laryngitis), overusing or straining the voice, acid reflux irritating the throat, allergies, and smoking. These usually improve within a week or two as the irritation settles.
When hoarseness is more worth checking
Hoarseness that lasts more than about three weeks, keeps getting worse, or comes with a lump in the neck, trouble swallowing, ear pain, or coughing up blood is more worth a doctor's look. Risk is higher for people who smoke or drink heavily.
When to see a doctor
See a doctor for hoarseness that lasts more than about three weeks or comes with a neck lump, swallowing trouble, or ear pain. The voice box can be examined easily, and most causes turn out to be harmless.
Words to know
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Common questions
▸Does a hoarse voice mean cancer?
Usually not. Most hoarseness comes from colds, voice strain, or reflux and clears within two weeks. Hoarseness lasting more than about three weeks is worth checking.
▸When should hoarseness be checked?
When it lasts more than about three weeks, worsens, or comes with a neck lump, swallowing trouble, ear pain, or coughing up blood.
▸Who is at higher risk?
People who smoke or drink heavily have a higher risk of cancers of the voice box and throat and should get lasting hoarseness checked.
▸How is the voice box examined?
A doctor can look at the voice box with a small mirror or a thin flexible camera, usually in the clinic.
Questions to ask your doctor
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