Throat Noises: Causes and Solutions for Vocal Issues

Is there noise when speaking?

I have been experiencing continuous colds since February of this year for about a month.
After recovering, I noticed that whenever I sing or speak, it feels like there is something phlegmy stuck in my throat, accompanied by a rattling sound when I speak.
However, every time I try to clear my throat, I can only say a few words before it starts again.
Since I am studying singing, I was quite anxious and consulted a doctor to check for vocal cord nodules, but the results were negative.
My condition has persisted for a long time, and my throat always feels like there is phlegm.
What could this situation be? Is it simply excess phlegm? If so, how can I improve my voice? Thank you for taking the time to respond.

Wenwen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2004/08/14

Dr. Ye Dawei reply Otolaryngology

Ms.
Wenwen, you have chronic pharyngitis.
It is also possible that you are experiencing excessive phlegm.
To improve your voice, the principle is to avoid overusing your vocal cords.
Here is an article for your reference, and please visit my website at http://dryeh.vclxx.org to read the article dated 91.4.5 regarding chronic pharyngitis.
Patient Question 1: Doctor, I am a housewife, and for the past month, I have been feeling a slight pain in my throat, as if I have phlegm, but I can't cough it out.
A relative of mine was recently diagnosed with throat cancer, which has made me fearful that I might also have throat cancer.
Please provide me with an answer.
Patient Question 2: Doctor, I am a middle school teacher, and for the past year, I often feel a sensation of something stuck in my throat, which is very uncomfortable.
Am I developing vocal cord nodules? Please provide me with an answer.
Doctor's Response: The most common cause of the two situations described above is chronic pharyngitis.
For long-term discomfort in the throat, the sensation of something being stuck while swallowing, and sometimes even mild pain, this sensation of a foreign body in the throat is most often caused by chronic pharyngitis.
Other possible causes could include throat tumors, post-nasal drip from sinusitis, chronic inflammation and enlargement of the tonsils, or gastroesophageal reflux.
There is no need to panic when experiencing this sensation; simply seek help from an otolaryngologist for differential diagnosis to identify the underlying cause.
Of course, self-diagnosis should be avoided to prevent delaying treatment.
Patients experiencing the sensation of a foreign body in the throat due to chronic pharyngitis primarily exhibit symptoms such as dry mouth, sore throat, and the feeling of phlegm or a foreign body in the throat.
In patients who are emotionally tense or speak a lot, such as teachers, the sensation of a foreign body in the throat may worsen.

In terms of treatment, it is advisable to drink plenty of warm water, ensure adequate sleep, and avoid irritating foods such as tobacco, alcohol, coffee, and spicy foods.
If necessary, seek medical assistance for medication.
Generally, improvement can be expected within 2 to 4 weeks.
(Response by Dr.
Shih Shui-Mu, Attending Physician, Department of Otolaryngology, Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Health, Executive Yuan)

Reply Date: 2004/08/14

More Info

The symptoms you are experiencing, particularly the sensation of having something stuck in your throat and the accompanying sounds when you speak or sing, can be quite distressing, especially for someone who is learning to sing. This condition is often referred to as "globus sensation" or "globus pharyngeus," which is the feeling of a lump or foreign body in the throat without any actual obstruction.
Several factors can contribute to this sensation, especially following a prolonged illness such as a cold or flu. After an upper respiratory infection, it is common for the throat to remain sensitive and for mucus production to increase, leading to the feeling of phlegm in the throat. This can be exacerbated by post-nasal drip, where mucus from the nasal passages drips down the back of the throat, causing irritation and the need to clear your throat frequently.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have been to a doctor and no vocal cord nodules (commonly known as "singer's nodules") were found, it is likely that your symptoms are related to irritation rather than structural issues. The persistent sensation of mucus can lead to a cycle of throat clearing, which can further irritate the throat and vocal cords, perpetuating the problem.

Here are some potential causes and solutions for your symptoms:
1. Post-Nasal Drip: This is a common issue following respiratory infections. It can cause mucus to accumulate in the throat, leading to the sensation of something being stuck. To alleviate this, consider using saline nasal sprays or rinses to help clear out excess mucus. Staying hydrated and using a humidifier can also help thin the mucus.

2. Acid Reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) can cause throat irritation and the sensation of a lump in the throat. If you suspect this might be an issue, try to avoid spicy or acidic foods, and consider elevating the head of your bed while sleeping. Over-the-counter antacids may also provide relief.

3. Vocal Strain: Since you are learning to sing, it’s essential to ensure that you are using proper vocal techniques. Straining your voice can lead to irritation and the development of nodules over time. Working with a vocal coach or speech therapist can help you learn techniques to protect your voice.

4. Hydration and Humidification: Keeping your throat hydrated is crucial. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, and consider herbal teas with honey to soothe your throat. A humidifier can also help maintain moisture in the air, especially in dry environments.

5. Avoid Irritants: Smoking, strong perfumes, and other environmental irritants can exacerbate throat irritation. Try to avoid these triggers as much as possible.

6. Consultation with a Specialist: If your symptoms persist despite trying these measures, it may be beneficial to see an otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) or a speech-language pathologist. They can perform a more thorough examination of your throat and vocal cords and provide tailored advice or treatment options.

In summary, while the sensation of having something stuck in your throat can be uncomfortable and concerning, it is often manageable with the right strategies. Focus on hydration, proper vocal techniques, and addressing any underlying issues such as post-nasal drip or acid reflux. If your symptoms continue, don’t hesitate to seek further medical advice to ensure that there are no other underlying conditions that need to be addressed.

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