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Voice Problems

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Leo89009
Leo89009

I have had a low grade sore throat for the past couple of months. It never really develops into a real full blown sore throat. However, I have been having problems with my voice also. It is hoarse at times and feels as if I am straining it if I talk for any length of time. I am also aware of having more phlegm and having to clear my throat more often than normal. I wonder if this is anything to do with my mild symptoms of COPD which were noticed last summer. It is worrying but seems too trivial to take to the GP. Thanks in advance.

0 likes, 15 replies

15 Replies

  • gpgp
    gpgp Leo89009

    Posted

    Are you using an inhaler? Some of them can cause throat soreness and the steroid inhalers can lead to thrush in the mouth and throat.
    • jude65855
      jude65855 gpgp

      Posted

      You won't get thrush if you follow manufacturer's instructions and rinse mouth out thoroughly after use and don't swallow the rinse water
    • Leo89009
      Leo89009 gpgp

      Posted

      No I am not using any treatment. Thanks
    • DawnDedee
      DawnDedee jude65855

      Posted

      Not true Jude, thrush can still happen even while following the instructions because I am living proof of that.  I keep Nystatin mouth rinse on hand to combat what will not rinse away.
    • jude65855
      jude65855 DawnDedee

      Posted

      Thanks for that info, I was going on manufacturer and doctor's instructions, I guess I shouldn't be so trusting.  I will get some nystatin mouth rinse in case I too develop thrush.   How did you realise you had it?
    • DawnDedee
      DawnDedee jude65855

      Posted

      At first my tongue begins to become sensitive and red. Almost feels like a slight burn from a too hot drink. Then my tongue begins to form a white coating on it and worse than that is when it begins to look like white clusters of bumps. This is the only way I can describe it. I just use my rinse as directed as soon as my tongue begins to hurt. Thrush is a bother! Diflucan, the pill for yeast relief kills it throughout the whole body.
    • jude65855
      jude65855 DawnDedee

      Posted

      Thanks for that info,  I'll watch out for those symptoms
  • jude65855
    jude65855 Leo89009

    Posted

    All sounds like COPD symptoms, classic symptoms in fact.   Did the GP prescribe anything for you when COPD was first diagnosed?  IF not s/he should have
    • Leo89009
      Leo89009 jude65855

      Posted

      No. I wasn't prescribed anything. Just told to watch out for deterioration and come back in a year. I think I will go back and see him. Thanks
  • hypercat
    hypercat Leo89009

    Posted

    Go to the doctors as you may have an exacerbation which needs treatment.   It's best to be on the safe side as infections can further damage your lungs.   You may need meds or a change of meds.   Make an appointment.   Take your lungs seriously please and don't take any chances.  

    Your GP would much rather you go and it is nothing than not go when you need to so mine told me.  x

  • DawnDedee
    DawnDedee Leo89009

    Posted

    Hi Leo,

    Nothing is too trivial to see your GP about if it is lasting for two months. 

    If you are not using a steroid inhaler or any form of corticosteroids, then you might consider seeing an ear nose and throat specialist to rule out other possible irritations if there is nothing your GP or pulmonologist can answer.  I found that I cannot use the Advair inhaler because it causes my vocal chords to weaken and I become hoarse.  Very annoying.  

    One simple treatment to try is to gargle several times a day with warm salt water because the salt dehydrates bacteria and even if your irritation is caused by sinus drainage, the salt will help heal your throat.  Would it not be great if it turns out to be this simple?  

    Best of luck!

    Dawn

    • Leo89009
      Leo89009 DawnDedee

      Posted

      Thanks, I have been to the GP and will be referred to ENT Specialist for further investigation. Will let yiu know what happens.
  • ladyjack51
    ladyjack51 Leo89009

    Posted

    Hi Leo89009

    If you have already been diagnosed with COPD, then nothing is too trivial. If you are experiencing changes that are staying around....please tell your Dr. Get yourself checked. Then please come tell us what it is and what happened. That's how we all learn and we do care too! Sincerely...ladyjack51

    • Leo89009
      Leo89009 ladyjack51

      Posted

      Thanks. I have to the GP and will be referred to ENT for further investigation. Will keep you up to date with the outcome.
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