Voice Disorders
ABOUT
Just like our fingerprints, our voices are unique and distinct to each of us. Our ability to produce sound is created by folds of tissues known as our vocal folds, (cords) which are located inside our larynx (voice box). The vocal folds control our tone, pitch, and volume when we speak.
CAUSES
Voice disorders encompass an array of conditions that can originate from a variety of causes:
- Vocal nodules
- Vocal polyps
- Laryngitis
- Trauma
- Vocal fold paralysis/paresis
- Neurodegenerative due to Parkinson’s disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
- Spasmodic dysphonia
- Muscle tension dysphonia
DIAGNOSIS
Our voices are uniquely us. So when we experience undesired changes to our voices, it can be troubling. An initial consultation with your primary care physician would be recommended. They may then refer you to an ear, nose, and throat specialist (otolaryngologist) to check on the health of your vocal folds.
As a speech-language pathologist, we will evaluate:
- Muscles of the face, mouth, and throat for strength and range of motion
- Breathing patterns
- Different aspects of your voice
- Any signs of physiological tension on the face, mouth, throat, and body
- When a client uses their voice the most
- What a client’s diet and lifestyles are
TREATMENT
Once an etiology of your voice disorder is medically diagnosed, voice therapy sessions can be uniquely designed for the following voice conditions:
- Vocal fold nodules
- Vocal cord dysfunction
- Aging voice
- Parkinson’s disease
- Prosody and inflection
- Loudness
- Hypernasality and hyponasality
Ready to schedule a visit?
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Still have questions?
Please give us a call @ 951-223-6761