Treatments for voice problems vary in both efficacy and risk. In contrast to some other medical problems, the appropriateness of treatment is determined not only by the type of problem, but also by a given person’s expectations and requirements of his/her voice. For instance, certain people visit the doctor only to be reassured that their voice problem is not cancer. Others find that their hoarseness, which may seem mild to others, has made it difficult to earn a living or communicate with friends and family, and seek a solution. Essential to getting good voice care is discussing your concerns with the physician, so that treatment can be tailored to the situation.