What are Voice Disorders?
Voice disorders include issues in different aspects of voice production, such as problems with voice quality, pitch, or loudness.
What Causes Voice Disorders?
These disorders generally arise as a result of problems in the vocal cords, or the systems responsible for voice production. External factors such as infections, smoking, alcohol, and certain chemicals can lead to the inflammation and swelling of the vocal cords. In some cases, internal factors such as cysts, papillomas, nodules, small areas of chronic inflammation called granulomas, and small blister like polyps can also cause damage to vocal cords. These growths stem from a variety of causes including injury, cancer, or other illnesses. Conditions like multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease, as well as trauma/injury can also cause vocal cord paresis or paralysis. Hormonal problems, particularly in females and overstrain due to vocal misuse or abuse can also have a significant negative impact on vocal cords. Continuous abuse can lead to the development of polyps or nodules that changes the quality of voice, making it hoarse or breathy. Severe cases can also lead to haemorrhage.
Diagnosis and Management
Diagnosing this condition requires careful examination of the vocal cords and larynx, which is done through a laryngoscopy and stroboscopy. These help view the vocal cords and assess its movement. Imaging tests may further be needed to check for additional growths and other tissue problems in the throat.
Management strategies and treatment plans may vary according to the cause of the voice disorder. They generally involve speech-language pathologists using multiple therapeutic approaches to develop an effective treatment plan.
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Voice therapy: This is generally offered through direct and indirect approaches to improve the production of voice in terms of pitch, volume, or quality. Direct approaches involve manipulation of vocal mechanisms for healthy voice production, while indirect approaches focus on modifying the environmental aspects in which the voice is produced. Following voice therapy your voice should sound stronger and louder than it was before.
Other management strategies may include certain lifestyle and dietary changes to maintain vocal hygiene, medications and/or injections, and surgery in cases of growths or tumors.
