Vocal nodules are common in children and adults who raise their voice in work or play. Uncommonly, polyps or nodules may lead to cancer. Many patients with reflux related changes of voice do not have symptoms of heartburn. Usually, the voice is worse in the morning and improves during the day. These people may have a sensation of a lump in their throat, mucous sticking in their throat or an excessive desire to clear their throat.
Smoking is another cause of hoarseness.
Since smoking is the major cause of throat cancer, if smokers are hoarse, they should see an otolaryngologist. Many unusual causes for hoarseness include allergies, thyroid problems, neurological disorders, trauma to the voice box and occasionally the normal menstrual cycle. Many people experience some hoarseness with advanced age. Problems with the voice are best managed by a team of professionals who know and understand how the voice functions. Voice disorders have many different characteristics which may give professionals a clue to the cause.