What to Know About Common Voice Disorders

Posted on by Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists

Voice disorders, which involve issues with pitch, tone or other vocal qualities, can impact anyone. Given the variety of potential causes, it’s important to consult an ENT specialist if you notice persistent symptoms. Below, we explore three common voice disorders that should prompt a visit to an ENT.

Vocal Cord Polyps

Man holding his throat. Concept of sore throat, pharyngitis, laryngitis or dysphagia.

Vocal cord polyps are non-cancerous growths that can form on the vocal cords, often due to vocal strain, smoking or exposure to irritants. These polyps can significantly alter the quality and clarity of your voice, typically causing hoarseness or a sensation of a lump in the throat. Other symptoms include a raspy voice, vocal fatigue and noticeable changes in pitch and volume.

Voice rest is often recommended to alleviate strain and treat vocal cord polyps. Voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist may also be necessary to develop healthier vocal habits. In more severe cases, surgical removal of the polyps might be required.

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is the inflammation of the larynx, or voice box, and is frequently caused by viral infections like the common cold or flu. However, it can also result from bacterial infections, overuse of the voice or exposure to harmful irritants such as smoke.

The treatment for laryngitis usually involves resting your voice to give the vocal cords time to heal, staying well-hydrated, using a humidifier to keep the air moist and taking over-the-counter medications to relieve symptoms. Most cases improve with home care, but it’s crucial to consult your doctor if your symptoms last longer than two weeks.

Spasmodic Dysphonia

Spasmodic dysphonia is a neurological disorder that disrupts the normal function of the laryngeal muscles, leading to involuntary spasms and abnormal voice patterns. This condition can cause your speech to sound choppy, strained or breathy. Symptoms often include a shaky voice, speech interrupted by breaks or pauses and difficulty controlling the pitch and volume of your voice.

Treatment options for spasmodic dysphonia may include injections to reduce muscle spasms, which can improve voice quality, and voice therapy with a speech-language pathologist to help manage symptoms and improve vocal techniques. While this condition is chronic, these treatments can greatly enhance voice function and quality of life.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an ENT specialist. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing voice disorders and avoiding further complications.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, contact Arizona Desert Ear, Nose & Throat Specialists today.