Can Chemotherapy Cause Hoarseness?
May 24, 2024 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Yes, chemotherapy can cause hoarseness. There are several mechanisms through which chemotherapy might lead to this symptom:
- Mucositis: Chemotherapy can cause inflammation and ulceration of the mucous membranes lining the mouth, throat, and esophagus, a condition known as mucositis. When the mucous membranes of the throat are affected, it can lead to hoarseness and changes in the voice.
- Dry Mouth (Xerostomia): Chemotherapy can reduce saliva production, leading to dry mouth. Saliva is important for lubricating the vocal cords and maintaining vocal quality. A lack of saliva can cause hoarseness.
- Reflux and Esophagitis: Some chemotherapy drugs can irritate the gastrointestinal tract, leading to acid reflux and esophagitis. Acid reflux can cause inflammation and damage to the vocal cords and the larynx, resulting in hoarseness.
- Infections: Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system, making patients more susceptible to infections, including those affecting the throat and respiratory system. Throat infections can lead to hoarseness.
- Allergic Reactions: In some cases, chemotherapy can cause allergic reactions that may lead to swelling and inflammation of the throat and vocal cords, resulting in hoarseness.
- Laryngeal Nerve Damage: Although rare, certain chemotherapy drugs can cause nerve damage. If the nerves that control the vocal cords (laryngeal nerves) are affected, this can lead to hoarseness.
- Fatigue and General Illness: Chemotherapy can cause significant fatigue and a general feeling of illness, which can affect the voice and lead to hoarseness.
If you are experiencing hoarseness during chemotherapy, it is important to discuss this symptom with your oncologist or healthcare provider. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend appropriate treatments, which may include:
- Hydration: Drinking plenty of fluids to keep the throat moist.
- Humidifiers: Using a humidifier to add moisture to the air, which can help soothe dry and irritated throat tissues.
- Saliva Substitutes: Using saliva substitutes or mouthwashes designed to relieve dry mouth.
- Medications: Prescribing medications to treat underlying conditions such as acid reflux or infections.
- Voice Rest: Advising rest for the vocal cords, avoiding excessive talking or whispering, which can strain the voice further.
Proper management and supportive care can help alleviate hoarseness and improve comfort during chemotherapy.