Dysphonia
What Is Dysphonia?
Dysphonia is a condition characterised by abnormalities in the quality, pitch, loudness, or resonance of the voice, resulting in hoarseness, breathiness, or other changes in vocal sound.
What causes Dysphonia?
Dysphonia can be caused by various factors affecting the vocal cords, larynx (voice box), or other structures involved in voice production.
Common causes of Dysphonia
There are several different types of dysarthria, each associated with specific patterns of speech impairment based on the underlying neurological damage. These types include:
Conditions such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, cysts, or paralysis affecting the vocal cords can lead to changes in voice quality.
Disorders affecting the larynx, such as laryngitis, vocal cord inflammation, or laryngeal cancer, can cause dysphonia.
Neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, or stroke can affect the nerves and muscles involved in voice production, leading to dysphonia.
Injury to the vocal cords or larynx, such as from vocal abuse (e.g., shouting, excessive talking), surgery, or trauma to the neck, can result in dysphonia.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GORD) can cause irritation and inflammation of the larynx, leading to dysphonia.
Understanding the Impact
Dysphonia, a voice disorder, can lead to difficulties in speech intelligibility, reduced communication effectiveness, and impact social relationships, emotional well-being, and vocational activities. It may cause physical discomfort, affect educational and healthcare access, and overall quality of life.
Types of Treatment
Speech therapists can provide voice therapy to help individuals improve their vocal function and reduce dysphonia.
Here are some common approaches to treatment:
Speech Therapists educate individuals on proper vocal hygiene practices to maintain vocal health and prevent further voice problems. This may involve strategies such as staying hydrated, avoiding vocal abuse or strain, minimixing exposure to irritants like smoking or environmental pollutants, and practicing vocal rest when needed.
Dysphonia often involves issues with breath support and control. Respiratory training exercises help individuals improve breathing techniques to support healthy vocal production and reduce strain on the vocal cords.
Specific exercises targeting vocal function may be prescribed to address particular voice disorders. These exercises aim to improve vocal flexibility, range, and stamina, enabling individuals to produce clearer and more controlled speech.
Speech Therapists work with individuals to identify and modify behaviours that contribute to vocal strain or abuse. This may involve addressing habits such as excessive throat clearing, yelling, or speaking in noisy environments.
Speech Therapists provide education and counselling to individuals with dysphonia, helping them understand their voice disorder, learn coping strategies, and advocate for their own vocal health needs.
How Speech Therapy Can Help?
Speech therapy offers a comprehensive approach to dysphonia treatment, addressing both the physical and psychological aspects of the voice disorder. Through targeted exercises, education, and support, speech therapy helps individuals improve their voice quality, communication skills, and overall quality of life.
