For the most part, the causes of hoarseness—a raspy or strained voice—are not serious and usually resolve within a few weeks. The Cleveland Clinic offers these probable causes of hoarseness: a common cold or an upper respiratory infection, using your voice too much or too loudly, gastroesophageal reflux, smoking, allergies, thyroid problems, and trauma to the voice box. If symptoms fail to resolve within two weeks, consult with your family doctor. Cleveland Clinic, January 2020