Lingering Cough and Hoarseness: A Post-COVID Winter Concern
As winter sets in, a new concern is emerging alongside the routine coughs and colds: a lingering hoarseness and persistent cough that continue long after other symptoms fade.
Prompting alarm among doctors, this unusual trend is particularly prominent in patients who have a history of COVID-19.
“We’re seeing a marked increase in cases of persistent voice changes following viral infections, including COVID-19 and other respiratory illnesses” said Dr. Murarji Ghadge, a senior ENT surgeon and sleep specialist. Ghadge sees 20 to 25 patients daily with flu-like symptoms, many of whom complain of hoarseness within days of infection.
This condition, while appearing benign, requires attention. “Residual inflammation in the larynx or secondary bacterial infections often underlie these symptoms,” explains Dr. Ghadge. “Continuous coughs can further strain vocal cords, extending recovery time.”
Doctors emphasize that hoarseness lasting beyond two weeks shouldn’t be ignored. While often this is caused by temporary inflammation. Chronic hoarseness can indicate more serious underlying conditions, such as vocal cord nodules, chronic laryngitis, or even malignancies. Difficulty swallowing, persistent cough, shortness of breath, or blood in sputum, should prompt a medical check-up.
Dr.
Mahendra Kawedia, head of pulmonology at Jehangir Hospital, echoes these concerns, noting that patients with both the Omicron variant, and other infections are experiencing prolonged coughing and hoarseness, often lasting four to six weeks despite medication.
“This virus seems to target the upper airways specifically, making recovery challenging,” Dr. Kawedia explains, adding that the dry winter air coupled with pollution further aggravates this.
“We’re seeing a significant rise in new asthma cases, even among individuals without a family history of the condition,” Dr. Kawedia revealed. “The combination of weakened immunity and environmental factors contributes considerably to these respiratory troubles.
Although seemingly minor, hoarseness can significantly impact quality of life, Dr.Kawedia cautions.
Precautions remain crucial. Vaccination, good hygiene practice,
What are the possible long-term effects of COVID-19 on the larynx, particularly concerning hoarseness and coughing?
## Lingering Cough and Hoarseness: A Post-COVID Winter Concern
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Today, we’re delving into a worrying trend doctors are noticing as winter approaches: persistent hoarseness and coughs linger long after other cold and flu symptoms subside. Joining us to discuss this is Dr. Murarji Ghadge, senior ENT surgeon and sleep specialist at Ruby Hall Clinic. Dr. Ghadge, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Ghadge:** Thank you for having me.
**Host:** You’ve mentioned a significant increase in patients complaining of these lingering vocal symptoms. What have you observed in your practice?
**Dr. Ghadge:** We’re absolutely seeing more and more patients, about 20 to 25 daily, with flu-like symptoms. A considerable number, within days of their infection, also complain of hoarseness. This is unusual and has become a particular concern in those with a history of COVID-19 infection. [[1](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9287584/)]
**Host:** That is concerning. What are the possible reasons behind this trend, particularly in post-COVID patients?
**Dr. Ghadge:** We’re still learning about the long-term effects of COVID-19. [[1](https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9287584/)]Post-COVID syndrome can involve a variety of issues, and laryngeal complications like vocal cord paralysis, congestion, and even spasms are being reported. These could definitely contribute to the hoarseness and cough.
**Host:** What advice would you give to people experiencing these symptoms, especially those who have had COVID-19?
**Dr. Ghadge:** It’s crucial to seek medical attention if you experience persistent hoarseness or cough that doesn’t improve within a week or two. Early diagnosis and treatment can be crucial, especially for any potential post-COVID complications.
**Host:** Dr. Ghadge, thank you for shedding light on this important issue. We hope this information will encourage viewers to seek help if they experience lingering symptoms.
