Something Feels Off With Your Voice? Here's When to See an ENT

We’ve all had those days — maybe after a long rehearsal, a night out, or even a cold — where your voice just doesn’t feel quite right. Maybe it’s a little raspy, tight, or just plain tired.

That’s totally normal every now and then.

But what if that weird feeling sticks around?

As vocalists, our instrument lives inside our body. That means we have to be extra tuned in to how things feel — and when something’s off, it’s worth paying attention.


When Should You See an ENT?

If any of the following symptoms last longer than two weeks, it’s a good idea to get your vocal folds checked out by an ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat doctor):

  • Hoarseness or raspiness that isn’t improving

  • A loss of voice or noticeable change in tone or pitch

  • A feeling of strain or effort when you speak or sing

  • Vocal fatigue — like your voice gets tired quickly

  • That “lump in your throat” feeling or constant throat clearing

  • Pain or tightness when talking

  • A lingering cough not related to allergies or a cold

Sometimes these things resolve on their own with rest, hydration, or better technique. But when they don’t, they could be signs of vocal fold irritation, swelling, nodules, polyps, or even something more serious. Catching these changes early gives you the best shot at healing and protecting your voice.


What Does an ENT Actually Do?

ENT stands for Ear, Nose, and Throat doctor, also known as an otolaryngologist. Some ENTs specialize specifically in voice — these are called laryngologists. They’re trained to work with singers, teachers, and other professional voice users.

During your visit, the ENT will typically do a visual exam of your vocal folds using a scope (either through your nose or mouth). From there, they can assess whether your issue is due to overuse, inflammation, a structural problem, or something else — and recommend the next step.

That could be:

  • Medication

  • Vocal rest

  • Surgery (in some cases)

  • Or voice therapy 


Why Does This Matter for Singers?

Sometimes voice issues are temporary — from a cold, allergies, or a rough vocal week. But other times, they’re signals that your body needs help. And pushing through can lead to long-term damage.

Getting checked out by an ENT who specializes in voice (a laryngologist) helps you get answers and a plan. Whether you need medical treatment or just some time to heal, it’s better to know than to guess.


What Happens If I Need Voice Therapy?

You're not alone — and it’s not a bad thing.

Voice therapy is like physical therapy, but for your voice. It’s designed to help you recover safely, retrain your technique, and build strength and coordination.

In addition to running Vocals on Stage Music Academy, I’m also a licensed voice therapist and the founder of the Voice & Speech Center, based right here in Culver City.

We work with singers, actors, teachers, and other voice professionals to:

  • Heal from vocal injuries or overuse

  • Improve voice quality, efficiency, and endurance

  • Build safe, sustainable vocal habits for the long haul

Whether you’re dealing with fatigue, muscle tension, or something more complex, voice therapy can help you get back to feeling (and sounding) like yourself again.


What If I'm Not Sure?

If your voice doesn’t sound or feel like you for more than two weeks — speak up. Get evaluated. Ask questions. And don’t ignore the signs.

Your voice deserves care and attention. You only get one.


Need help finding the right ENT or laryngologist? Want to book a voice consult or talk through what’s going on?

We’re here to help.

Written by: Radina - Vocals on Stage Music Academy 

Vocals on Stage