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Voice, Throat & Swallowing

Most people take their voice for granted until they experience a voice or swallowing problem. A voice or swallowing disorder can greatly limit your ability to eat, drink or communicate and even a mild voice disorder can be a sign of a more serious health problem.

What is a Sore Throat?

A sore throat refers to pain, dryness, or irritation in the throat that can make swallowing or speaking uncomfortable. The sensation may feel scratchy or raw, and symptoms often worsen when talking, eating, or drinking. In some cases, the throat may appear red or inflamed.

 

Sore throat symptoms are commonly caused by viral infections such as the flu or common cold. These cases usually resolve on their own within a few days. However, persistent or recurring symptoms may require evaluation by a sore throat doctor or throat specialist in Singapore to rule out other underlying conditions.

What Causes Sore Throat?

There are many possible causes of sore throat, ranging from common infections to environmental or lifestyle-related triggers. Identifying the cause can help guide the appropriate treatment approach.

 

Infectious Causes

  • Viral Infections: These include influenza, the common cold, or COVID-19. Viral sore throats tend to improve with rest and supportive care.
  • Bacterial Infections: Streptococcal bacteria may lead to strep throat, which typically requires antibiotics for resolution.

Non-Infectious Causes

  • Allergies: Exposure to dust, pollen, pet dander, or other allergens can trigger throat irritation.
  • Acid Reflux: Stomach acid that flows back into the throat may lead to a burning sensation and chronic throat discomfort.
  • Dry Air or Mouth Breathing: This can dry out the throat lining, especially during sleep or in air-conditioned environments.
  • Smoking or Irritants: Tobacco smoke and chemical fumes can inflame the throat lining.
  • Voice Overuse: Speaking or shouting for prolonged periods may strain the vocal cords and lead to discomfort.
  • Medication-Related: Some medications, such as immunosuppressants or antihypertensives, may contribute to throat dryness or irritation.

If symptoms persist, an ENT throat assessment may help determine the underlying cause and whether further care is required.

Understanding Throat-Related Conditions Treated at Our ENT Clinic

Throat-related symptoms can be disruptive, especially when they interfere with speaking, swallowing, or breathing. At our ENT clinic, we assess a wide range of conditions affecting the throat and voice.

Sore Throat (Acute, Recurrent)

A sore throat may occur due to viral or bacterial infections, irritation from allergies, or postnasal drip. While many cases resolve on their own, recurrent sore throats may indicate ongoing inflammation or structural concerns that require a review by a sore throat doctor.

Hoarseness or Voice Strain

Changes in voice, such as hoarseness or vocal fatigue, may result from vocal overuse, inflammation, or issues affecting the vocal cords. These symptoms are evaluated through clinical examination and visualisation of the larynx.

Difficulty Swallowing (Dysphagia)

Dysphagia refers to difficulty or discomfort when swallowing. This may be caused by muscle coordination issues, infections, or structural blockages. A throat specialist clinic in Singapore can carry out a swallowing assessment to determine the underlying cause.

Tonsil or Throat Infections

Enlarged or inflamed tonsils may result in sore throats, difficulty swallowing, or sleep-related breathing disturbances. In some cases, recurrent tonsillitis may lead to consideration for throat surgery.

Chronic Cough or Throat Clearing

Persistent coughs or the need to clear the throat repeatedly may be linked to postnasal drip, reflux, or airway sensitivity. These symptoms are assessed to find out if they are linked to throat or airway issues that need treatment.

When Should You See a Throat Specialist in Singapore?

While many throat symptoms are temporary, some may be signs of underlying conditions that require ENT evaluation. You may consider seeing a throat specialist clinic in Singapore if the following apply:

Persistent Sore Throat Beyond 1 Week

If throat discomfort lasts more than a week without improvement, further assessment may help determine if infection, irritation, or other causes are involved.

Pain When Swallowing

Pain during swallowing—especially if it is sharp, one-sided, or associated with fever—may suggest infection, inflammation, or lesions.

Change in Voice Lasting More Than 2 Weeks

Hoarseness that persists for more than two weeks could point to vocal cord strain, inflammation, or growths. It is advisable to consult an ENT throat clinic to investigate further.

The Feeling of a Lump in the Throat

A persistent sensation of a lump or tightness in the throat, particularly when not related to food, may be caused by muscle tension, reflux, or local irritation. Evaluation can help clarify the cause.

Breathing or Swallowing Difficulty

Any symptoms that make it harder to breathe or swallow should be addressed promptly. Structural blockages, infections, or laryngeal dysfunction may be contributing factors.

Diagnostic Approach to Voice, Throat, and Swallowing Disorders

We adopt a structured and supportive approach to assessing voice, throat, and swallowing issues at our clinic. Each step is explained clearly so you know what to expect.

Consultation Process

The first step is a detailed consultation, where your ENT doctor will take time to understand your symptoms and medical history. You may be asked about how long the issue has been present, if it changes throughout the day, and whether it affects your eating, speaking, or sleeping. A physical examination of the mouth, throat, and neck will also be conducted.

Flexible Nasoendoscopy

flexible nasoendoscopy

If needed, your doctor may carry out a flexible nasoendoscopy. This involves inserting a thin, flexible scope through the nose to view the back of the nose, throat, and vocal cords. It provides a real-time view of the area and can be helpful in identifying the cause of hoarseness, throat discomfort, or structural abnormalities. The procedure is brief and typically well-tolerated, even in patients who feel nervous.

Swallowing Assessment

For those with swallowing issues, a functional evaluation is carried out to determine how well the muscles in the throat are working. This may involve observing how you swallow water or soft foods. If necessary, you may be referred to a speech-language therapist for further testing.

Imaging (CT/MRI Only if Clinically Indicated)

Imaging such as CT or MRI scans may be recommended when symptoms suggest a deeper structural issue or mass. These scans are only recommended when medically appropriate and after clinical review.

Each diagnostic step is selected to suit your specific symptoms, with the aim of identifying the cause and guiding appropriate care.

Treatment Options for Throat Discomfort at an ENT Throat Clinic

Treatment for throat-related symptoms varies based on the underlying cause. At an ENT throat clinic, the focus is on addressing both the symptoms and potential contributing factors. Depending on the findings from your consultation, your doctor may recommend one or more of the following:

Paracetamol or non-prescription lozenges may be advised to help reduce discomfort while the throat heals.

Saltwater gargles or throat sprays may help soothe irritation and keep the throat moist.

If allergies are contributing to symptoms, antihistamines may help relieve throat irritation and nasal congestion.

For symptoms linked to reflux, medications to reduce stomach acid may be prescribed. This may help prevent further throat irritation.

In cases of hoarseness or vocal strain, voice therapy may be suggested. This may be arranged with a speech-language therapist.

Staying well-hydrated, resting the voice, and using a humidifier at home may help alleviate symptoms and support recovery.

These treatment options are discussed during your visit, depending on the nature of your symptoms and examination findings.

When is Throat Surgery Recommended and What to Expect

Surgery is not the first step in most throat-related conditions. It is only considered when other options have been explored or when structural issues require intervention.

Indications

Throat surgery may be considered for:

  • Recurrent tonsillitis not responding to medication
  • Obstructive tonsils affecting breathing or swallowing
  • Vocal cord lesions not resolving with conservative care
  • Suspicious masses requiring biopsy or removal

Recovery Expectations

Recovery from throat procedures varies based on the type of surgery. Patients are given clear guidance on diet, pain management, and activity levels post-surgery. Follow-up appointments are arranged to monitor healing and manage any concerns.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

Collaboration with speech therapists or other allied professionals may be arranged to support voice rehabilitation or swallowing therapy. This coordinated care helps ensure patients receive comprehensive support after treatment.

Meet the ENT Sore Throat Specialist

Dr Leslie Timothy Koh

MBBS (Singapore), MRCS (ENT) Edinburgh, M. Med (ORL), FAMS

Dr Leslie Koh is a fully accredited ENT sore throat specialist in Singapore. He manages a range of throat-related conditions including sore throat, hoarseness, swallowing difficulties, and airway-related concerns.

His clinical practice includes a focus on voice and swallowing issues, alongside general ENT care. Dr Koh has worked in both public and private healthcare settings, and continues to serve as a Visiting Consultant at Changi General Hospital.

His sub-specialty interests include voice, swallowing, and upper airway conditions, and he has contributed to ENT education through his teaching roles at Duke-NUS, NUS-YLL, and Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine.

To find out more, visit About Dr Leslie Koh.

Voice Conditions

Throat & Swallowing Conditions

Procedures & Treatments

FAQs About Throat, Voice, and Swallowing Care

If your sore throat lasts longer than a week, keeps coming back, or is paired with other symptoms like voice changes, pain when swallowing, or swollen lymph nodes, it’s worth seeing a sore throat specialist. An ENT can help determine whether the cause is viral, bacterial, or related to another underlying issue.

The doctor will begin by asking about your symptoms and medical history. A physical exam follows, and in many cases, a flexible nasoendoscopy is performed. This involves passing a thin scope through the nose to get a live view of your throat and vocal cords. It’s a quick and well-tolerated procedure.

Hoarseness may be caused by vocal strain, reflux, allergies, or vocal cord issues. Treatment depends on the cause and may include voice rest, medication, or voice therapy. If symptoms are related to nasal conditions, your doctor may refer you for further evaluation or sinus treatment.

No. Many sore throats are viral and will resolve on their own. Antibiotics are typically reserved for bacterial infections such as streptococcal tonsillitis. Your ENT will assess your symptoms and medical history before recommending any medication.

Yes. GERD can lead to throat irritation, a sensation of a lump, chronic cough, or hoarseness. This is known as laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). In some cases, symptoms may overlap with a nasal allergy—your doctor might explore this further.

Book a Consultation with Our Throat Specialist in Singapore

If you’re experiencing ongoing throat discomfort or voice changes, feel free to get in touch for a clinical assessment.

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