When to Refer a Patient
General guidelines on when to refer a patient for evaluation:
- Hoarseness that lasts longer than 2-3 weeks.
- Loss or severe change in voice lasting longer than a few days.
- Hoarseness that is associated with any of the following symptoms: pain not from a cold or flu, coughing up blood, difficulty swallowing, or a lump in the neck.
- Long standing change in voice that has affected quality of life or prevents communication.
- Change in voice of a vocal professional (singer, teacher, etc.).
- Uncontrolled drooling.
- A persistent sensation of a foreign body or "lump" in the throat, despite treatment for allergies.
- Weight loss and inadequate nutrition due to prolonged or more significant problems with swallowing.
- Coughing or choking while eating or drinking liquids.
- Pain on swallowing.
- Severe and prolonged sore throat.
- Difficulty breathing associated with a sore throat.
- Presence of stridor or other upper airway noises.
