The Role of Hydration and Dietary Modifications in the Management of Hoarseness: A Prospective Study.

Background: Hoarseness affects a significant portion of the population, impacting communication and quality of life. While systemic hydration and dietary modifications have been suggested as management strategies, empirical evidence supporting their efficacy remains sparse. Methods: This prospective study at the District Hospital in Sheopur involved 100 participants with hoarseness, assessing the impact of hydration and dietary interventions over six months. Voice quality was measured using the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) and acoustic parameters pre- and post-intervention. Adherence to interventions was monitored and correlated with outcomes. Results: Postintervention, significant improvements were observed in VHI scores (from 30 ± 10 to 20 ± 8, p < 0.001) and acoustic measures. A strong correlation was found between high adherence to the prescribed interventions and improvement in voice quality (Spearman's rho for VHI improvement = 0.70, p < 0.001). Despite overall positive outcomes, 10% of participants experienced worsened symptoms, indicating variability in individual responses. Conclusion: The study provides empirical support for the efficacy of hydration and dietary modifications in improving voice quality among individuals with hoarseness. High adherence to the intervention was a key factor in achieving significant voice improvement, emphasizing the importance of patient engagement and tailored support in treatment plans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]