Differential Diagnosis for Hoarseness
How many things can cause Hoarseness? Here are some pearls I picked up today.
- Cancer (esophageal/laryngeal) - Lasts longer than a couple weeks.
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
- Viral Pharyngitis (about a week)
- Allergies (usually short duration)
- Post Nasal Drip (see above)
- Overuse injury (like yelling or screaming)
When in doubt, try a PPI for GERD and consult Otolaryngology for laryngoscopy to rule out cancer.