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Real members of MyLupusTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.
A MyLupusTeam Member asked a question 💭
Grand Junction, CO
February 4
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A MyLupusTeam Member

The inflammation we experience can also cause laryngitis, or vocal cord inflammation and hoarseness, Michelle. I also get hoarse very easily. Several years ago, I tried to join a community choir with a good friend, and I became very hoarse after a few months. The ENT agreed that lupus was likely playing a role. Voice rest is our friend when we're hoarse, and we must avoid whispering, too.

If it persists beyond a few weeks, it's worth seeing an ENT, as vocal cord polyps or, rarely, other tumors can cause hoarseness, too.

February 5
MyLupusTeam

Are you experiencing voice changes with lupus?

Yes, lupus can definitely affect your voice. Many people with lupus experience vocal issues including hoarseness, difficulty speaking or singing, vocal fatigue, breathy or quiet speech, sore or dry throat, and changes in voice quality.

What causes these voice changes?

Several Show Full Answer

Are you experiencing voice changes with lupus?

Yes, lupus can definitely affect your voice. Many people with lupus experience vocal issues including hoarseness, difficulty speaking or singing, vocal fatigue, breathy or quiet speech, sore or dry throat, and changes in voice quality.

What causes these voice changes?

Several lupus-related factors can impact your voice:

- Joint inflammation: Lupus can affect the cricoarytenoid joint in your voice box, causing stiffness and swelling that impacts your vocal cords
- GERD: Acid reflux is common with lupus and can irritate your throat, causing hoarseness and tightness
- Tissue damage: Greater vocal symptoms often relate to overall tissue damage from lupus
- Sjögren's syndrome: About 1 in 10 people with lupus have this condition, which causes dryness that affects speaking
- Hypothyroidism: Low thyroid function occurs in 15-19% of people with lupus and can cause hoarseness

A MyLupusTeam member shared: "My voice goes sometimes, and when I get fatigued, my tongue feels heavy and I have difficulty talking." What can help?

Several treatment options may improve your voice:

- Voice therapy: Exercises and techniques to control pitch and volume, including breathing exercises and gentle stretches
- Vocal rest: Give your voice breaks when tired or strained (remember, whispering strains vocal cords more than talking)
- Medication: Your doctor can treat underlying causes like GERD, joint inflammation, or thyroid issues
- Self-care: One member shared: "I drink warm water with lemon and no caffeine or heavy food before I sing, and do lots of breathing exercises"

Talk with your healthcare provider to identify what's causing your vocal issues and find the right treatment approach for you.

February 4
A MyLupusTeam Member

MichelleHodges I also have trouble with my voice. I also get hoarse very easily especially if I talk very much. There have been a few times I lost my voice completely. The first thing I do when I get up in the morning, is make a cup of hot decaffeinated tea with a spoon of honey. I use raw honey, 100% honey. It seams to help. Hugs

February 6
A MyLupusTeam Member
February 4

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