Home Remedies For Hoarseness | Treatments For Allergy Relief And Dry Cough

By | November 13, 2009

Hoarseness Cures And Home Remedies For Hoarseness

Hoarseness is caused by a number of conditions that lead to an abnormal pitch of voice, usually deep and harsh. The most common cause for a hoarse voice is an injury that is sustained to the vocal cords by an irritation felt in the larynx. The larynx, or the voice box, contains the vocal cords and is situated in the respiratory tract.

While speaking, the vocal cords are exercised to produce sound through vibration. Acute laryngitis, caused by an infection of the upper respiratory tract is primarily responsible for hoarseness in the voice, as is overuse and misuse of the voice, by speaking at unnecessary high levels of volume. The condition can be prolonged by excess usage of the vocal cords. In the case of singers and vocalists, for example, nodules and cysts can form on the vocal cords, leading to extended periods of hoarseness. Another possible cause is GERD, wherein the stomach acid has a reflux reaction and comes up into the esophagus, causing an irritation of the vocal cords. Smoke irritates the mucous membranes of the larynx and is therefore known to lead to hoarseness.

Chronic Hoarseness Causes And Treatment

An upper respiratory tract infection will usually be fought off by the body, but it is essential that enough rest is undertaken to enable the body to do so. A concoction of warm milk, honey and turmeric powder is a time tested method for treating hoarseness. Turmeric is known for its natural healing properties, while the warmth of the milk and honey concoction soothes the vocal cords and takes care of any irritation in the throat. Honey is also known for its anti microbial properties, thereby killing germs that cause infection. Spicy, oily and fatty foods should be avoided. In order to treat hoarseness, it is highly recommended that the vocal cords be rested, as this prevents further injury.

Most people tend to whisper in order to avoid strain to the vocal cords, not realizing that whispering puts excess strain on the larynx. It is therefore advised that a person suffering from hoarseness should avoid whispering. Singing also causes a strain on the vocal cords and should be refrained from when the voice is hoarse. Smoking should be avoided as it tends to irritate the throat, causing further damage to the vocal cords. In the event that the hoarseness is present for a time period that extends a week, or if there is trouble with breathing and swallowing, it is advised that you seek urgent medical assistance.