What tests do i need to take to determine the cause of laryngitis? my voice has been hoarse for a few weeks and is not improving. if i go to the doctor to get it checked out, what type of doctor should i see and what kind tests do they perform?

Longstanding : Longstanding hoarseness is a concerning warning sign, particularly if you smoke. This condition is best evaluated by an ENT physician, though you may have to see your personal physician first to get a referral. Typically a physical examination will be done and most likely a direct visualization of your throat will be done using a small endoscope. You should have this evaluated as soon as possible.

After : After several weeks of persistent hoarseness, you should see an ENT physician who can visualize your entire pharynx and larynx by indirect mirror or fiberoptic laryngoscopy. The possible etiologies are vast, and include inflammatory/infectious, neurogenic, neoplastic-benign and malignant, traumatic, etc. Proper treatment is dictated by an accurate diagnosis.