Ahem. How to treat and prevent hoarseness

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Millions of people experience hoarseness, especially children, the elderly and people in very vocal professions -- such as teachers. Treatment strategies for hoarseness can vary widely, but now doctors and patients can refer to the first-ever set of medical guidelines addressing the condition.

The guidelines, released today by the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation, should help to distinguish between trivial types of hoarseness and conditions that are more serious, such as cancer. Hoarseness, also called dysphonia, is characterized by an altered vocal quality, pitch, loudness or any impairment of vocal communication.

‘Most hoarseness is caused by benign or self-limiting conditions, but it may also be the presenting symptom of a more serious or progressive condition requiring prompt diagnosis and management,’ Dr. Seth R. Schwartz, chairman of the guidelines committee, said in a news release. ‘This new guideline is intended to enhance diagnosis, promote appropriate therapy, improve outcomes, and to expand counseling and education for prevention.’

Some highlights of the document:

-- Laryngoscopy should be performed if hoarseness persists or the cause is uncertain.
-- Anti-reflux medications should not be prescribed for hoarseness unless there are signs or symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease or signs of inflammation of the larynx seen during laryngoscopy.
-- Steroids or antibiotics are not recommended.
-- Voice therapy is a well-established tool for hoarseness that can be performed at any age.
-- The risk of hoarseness may be reduced by preventive measures such as staying well-hydrated, avoiding irritants (such as tobacco smoke), voice training and amplification during heavy voice use.

How about avoiding high-stakes, live sports events? That’s usually when I become hoarse.

-- Shari Roan