Ronquera

Ronquera is a Spanish term for hoarseness in the voice, describing a change in vocal quality that makes the voice sound rough, husky, or breathy. It is a symptom rather than a disease, arising when the vocal folds (cords) fail to vibrate normally during speech. The term is commonly used in clinical and everyday language to describe disturbances in pitch, loudness, and timbre.

Causes include voice overuse or abuse (screaming, shouting, singing), acute laryngitis from viral infection, allergies or post-nasal drip, smoking or exposure to irritants, and gastroesophageal reflux. Structural lesions such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, cysts, or edema can produce a persistent hoarse voice. Less often, neurologic conditions, hormonal changes, or certain medications contribute.

Symptoms may include hoarseness, a low or breathy voice, reduced volume, frequent throat clearing, and fatigue after talking. If hoarseness lasts more than about two weeks or is accompanied by trouble swallowing, pain, fever, a lump in the neck, or coughing up blood, a medical evaluation is advised.

Diagnosis typically involves a medical history and a laryngoscopic examination to visualize the vocal folds, sometimes with stroboscopy to assess vibration. Treatment targets the underlying cause and may include voice rest, hydration, avoiding irritants, treatment of infections or reflux, and voice therapy. Surgical intervention may be needed for persistent lesions.

Prevention focuses on healthy voice use, avoiding irritants, treating allergies and reflux, and seeking prompt care for persistent symptoms.