Losing your voice is usually due to inflammation or strain of the vocal cords, but the exact cause can vary. Here are the main categories and common examples to help you identify what might be happening.

• Infections and inflammation
  • Viral laryngitis (from colds or flu)
  • Acute or chronic laryngitis from infections
  • Allergies that irritate the throat and vocal cords
• Vocal strain and overuse
  • Talking loudly, yelling, cheering at events
  • Prolonged singing, shouting, or speaking for long periods without rest
  • Frequent throat clearing, screaming, or talking with poor technique
• Reflux and irritation
  • Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (acid irritating the voice box)
  • Irritants like smoke, air pollution, chemical fumes, or strong fragrances
• Benign vocal cord changes
  • Nodules, polyps, or cysts on the vocal folds from chronic overuse or irritation
  • Vocal fold hemorrhage from sudden, intense strain (can cause abrupt hoarseness)
• Less common or more serious causes
  • Vocal cord paralysis or neurologic conditions affecting voice
  • Less commonly, tumors or other structural problems (usually with persistent hoarseness lasting weeks)
• Systemic or medical conditions
  • Thyroid problems, autoimmune conditions, or certain medications that dry or irritate the throat

When to seek medical care

• Hoarseness lasting more than a few weeks
• Sudden, severe voice loss with trouble breathing or swallowing
• Persistent hoarseness after a cold or flu that doesn’t improve
• Hoarseness accompanied by weight loss, coughing up blood, or a lump in the neck

What to do now

• Rest your voice: avoid singing, whispering (which can strain), and speaking loudly.
• Hydration and throat care: stay hydrated, use humidifiers, avoid irritants like smoke and alcohol.
• Review medications and conditions: if on medications that cause dryness or reflux symptoms, discuss with your clinician.
• See a clinician who specializes in voice (otolaryngologist or laryngologist) for a thorough evaluation, especially if symptoms persist. They may perform a physical exam and, if needed, a laryngoscopy to look at the vocal cords and determine the exact cause and appropriate treatment.

If you’d like, share any specifics about how long the hoarseness has lasted, any accompanying symptoms (fever, coughing, reflux symptoms, exposure to irritants), and your recent voice use patterns. This can help narrow down likely causes and next steps.