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VOICE DISORDERS

DYSPHONIA

WHAT IS DYSPHONIA?

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Dysphonia, or voice disorders, occur when people experience abnormal changes in their vocal quality, pitch, and/or volume. Some people may have a normal sounding voice, but feel talking is too tiring, effortful, or even painful. These voice changes can result from a variety of causes, including: over or underuse, improper vocal technique, ageing, or damage to the nerve(s) that innervate the voice box. Moreover, dysphonia can be a stand-alone problem or can accompany certain disorders, like gastroesophageal reflux and Parkinson’s disease. 

 

Ear, nose, and throat (ENT) doctors are essential in addressing voice problems. Together, Davina will work with your ENT to determine if voice therapy is appropriate for you.

A laryngeal stroboscopy is a video examination of the vocal folds (i.e., vocal cords) in action and is crucial in diagnosing voice problems. The video below shows a stroboscopy of normal female vocal folds

Superior view of the vocal folds in closed, partially and fully opened positions

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SIGNS & SYMPTOMS: ​

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  • Changes in vocal quality (e.g., scratchy/rough, breathy, strained, etc.)

  • Low volume / difficulty being heard

  • Pain when talking/singing

  • Burning sensation in throat or chest area

  • Increased effort to talk/sing

  • Voice feels tired with prolonged use

  • Voice breaks/cracks

  • Decreased pitch range

  • Excessive tension in your throat or voice box 

  • Frequent coughing or throat clearing

  • Unreliable voice -- it’s not working for you!

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 If you or a loved one are experiencing any of these symptoms or for more information, please contact Davina. 

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