Why is my voice hoarse following a cold?

Answer by  patti (29325)

The pharynx and larynx (voice box) become irritated and swollen, especially if you have a lot of drainage or a cough. This irritation causes you to sound hoarse.

Answer by  jaimesgirl (1055)

Often, as a result of coughing, the vocal cords become inflamed. This additional stress can sometimes become severe enough to make a person lose his or her voice (laryngitis). Most of the time, however, it results in mild or moderate hoarseness. This may last for several days after the cold has gone away.

Answer by  kandscreeley (10)

Most likely, your voice becomes hoarse, because you have coughed and sneezed so much. This strains your vocal cords. Your body needs time to recover after a stressful event like a cold.

Answer by  spragoo (1500)

If you were coughing a lot during the cold that would put a strain on your vocal cords. Also, the phlegm and all the other nasty stuff that goes on back there can temporally damage those cords as well.

Answer by  Shankalot (484)

Many people who suffer from the common cold have a sore throat and find their voice is hoarse. That is why medicated lozenges help. The throat is dry, causing the hoarse voice.