Trends in Clinical and Medical Sciences
Special issue: Recent developments of medical and surgical research (2023), pp. 34 – 44
ISSN: 2791-0814 (online) 2791-0806 (Print)
DOI: 10.30538/psrp-tmcs2023.si-rdmsr005
ISSN: 2791-0814 (online) 2791-0806 (Print)
DOI: 10.30538/psrp-tmcs2023.si-rdmsr005
A cross-sectional observational study of hoarseness of voice in a tertiary care hospital
K G Somashekara\(^{1}\), Ravikeerthi G\(^{1}\), Vibha B\(^{2,*}\) and Norma Thomas\(^{3}\)
\(^{1}\) Department of ENT H & N, Sapthagiri Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India.
\(^{2}\) Department of ENT H & N, Government Hospital, Bangalore North, Karnataka, India.
\(^{3}\) Department of ENT H & N Government Hospital, Kanakapura, Ramanagar District, Karnataka, India.
Correspondence should be addressed to Vibha B at vibha1994@gmail.com
Copyright © 2023 K G Somashekara, Ravikeerthi G, Vibha B and Norma Thomas. This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.
Received: February 2, 2023 – Accepted: February 18, 2023 – Published: February 28, 2023
Abstract
Background: Hoarseness of voice is a common manifestation of structural or functional anomalies affecting the glottis. A detailed examination is necessary to ensure accurate diagnosis and management. Patients from rural areas often present with the condition at a later stage, emphasizing the need for creating awareness to facilitate early diagnosis and treatment. Indirect or video laryngoscopy (IDL/VDL) is the preferred method for evaluating hoarseness.
Objectives: The objectives of this study were to determine the socio-demographic profile of patients with hoarseness of voice and identify common predisposing factors for the condition.
Methods: We conducted a study of 100 cases of hoarseness of voice at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Bangalore, Karnataka, over 18 months. Detailed histories, including habits and socio-demographic information, were obtained. We documented information on the onset, duration, precipitating factors, aggravating and relieving factors, and socio-economic status. All patients underwent general clinical and otorhinolaryngological, head, and neck examinations, as well as IDL/VDL.
Results: In our study, the most commonly affected age group was 50-60 years (21%), and males were more affected than females in a ratio of 1.2:1. The majority of patients were from urban areas, with most belonging to class 3 (36%). Agricultural workers and manual laborers had the highest incidence. The majority of patients presented within 15 days of symptom onset, and vocal abuse (32%) was the most common predisposing factor. All patients presented with a change in voice (100%), with associated symptoms including difficulty in swallowing (34%), voice fatigue (26%), weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Conclusion: Due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation, most patients in our study presented at a later stage, with significant changes in voice or associated symptoms. This was a major limitation of our study. We emphasize that any change in voice can have varied etiologies, and therefore requires appropriate investigation, screening, and early management. Awareness of the ill-effects of smoking, alcohol, tobacco, and vocal abuse is crucial in preventing various laryngeal pathologies.
Methods: We conducted a study of 100 cases of hoarseness of voice at the Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Bangalore, Karnataka, over 18 months. Detailed histories, including habits and socio-demographic information, were obtained. We documented information on the onset, duration, precipitating factors, aggravating and relieving factors, and socio-economic status. All patients underwent general clinical and otorhinolaryngological, head, and neck examinations, as well as IDL/VDL.
Results: In our study, the most commonly affected age group was 50-60 years (21%), and males were more affected than females in a ratio of 1.2:1. The majority of patients were from urban areas, with most belonging to class 3 (36%). Agricultural workers and manual laborers had the highest incidence. The majority of patients presented within 15 days of symptom onset, and vocal abuse (32%) was the most common predisposing factor. All patients presented with a change in voice (100%), with associated symptoms including difficulty in swallowing (34%), voice fatigue (26%), weight loss, and loss of appetite.
Conclusion: Due to the prevailing COVID-19 situation, most patients in our study presented at a later stage, with significant changes in voice or associated symptoms. This was a major limitation of our study. We emphasize that any change in voice can have varied etiologies, and therefore requires appropriate investigation, screening, and early management. Awareness of the ill-effects of smoking, alcohol, tobacco, and vocal abuse is crucial in preventing various laryngeal pathologies.
Keywords:
Hoarseness of voice; Indirect laryngoscopy; Laryngeal malignancy.