Throat & Voice
Hoarseness & Voice Disorders
A voice change that lasts more than a few weeks deserves a direct look at the vocal cords — not another course of guessing.
Hoarseness usually comes from the vocal cords: swelling from overuse or reflux, nodules or polyps from voice strain, age-related thinning, or — rarely — a growth that needs early attention. Dr. Bortniker examines the voice box directly with a flexible laryngoscope in the office, so the cause is seen rather than assumed, and treatment matches the actual problem.
When to Have Your Voice Evaluated
- Hoarseness beyond 3 weeks
- Voice fatigue or strain
- Pain or effort when speaking
- Smokers with voice change
Talk to a specialist
Direct, in-office evaluation of the voice — Somerville and Warren offices.
Common Causes
Laryngitis from infection or overuse, reflux irritating the vocal cords (often without heartburn), vocal nodules and polyps in heavy voice users, age-related changes, thyroid conditions, and nerve problems affecting cord movement. Persistent hoarseness in smokers always warrants direct examination to rule out early cancer — which is highly treatable when caught early.
Evaluation and Treatment
Flexible laryngoscopy in the office shows the vocal cords in real time as you speak. Treatment ranges from voice rest and reflux management to voice therapy, and surgical removal of nodules, polyps or suspicious lesions when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is hoarseness serious?
Any voice change lasting more than three weeks — especially in smokers or with pain, difficulty swallowing or a neck lump — should be examined directly. Most causes are benign, but the serious ones reward early discovery.