With voice change comes comes a requirement to rule out cancer inane around the voice box. A simple procedure using a flexible camera allows us to visualise the larynx (voice box) and rule out cancer in a matter of minutes.
Comfortable speech requires good vocal hygiene and a delicate balance of muscular movement to maintain even pitch. Occasionally this delicate balance is upset and muscles ill-equipped for voicing become involved. The use of these muscles leads to changes in pitch and an unstable voice. This can lead discomfort or a strained sensation. This imbalance is called muscle tension dysphonia. Visualisation using a flexible camera will aid diagnosis and voice therapy is used as a first line treatment.
Gastric juices refluxing to the back of the throat can lead to symptoms such as hoarseness, throat clearing, foreign body sensation, cough or a dry, sensitive throat. Diagnosis is made with a combination of history and examination. Lifestyle changes and occasionally medication is used to minimise the effects of these symptoms.
The ageing voice is referred to as presbyphonia. Problems in volume, hoarseness, fatigue and breath support can develop with age. Good vocal hygiene and speech therapy is often effective in improving the voice and onward referral to a speech therapist can be arranged following diagnosis
A vocal cord which does not move appropriately can leave a person with a weak, 'breathy voice'. TReduced sentence duration is common and there is a risk of fluid and food entering the wind pipe (aspiration). Diagnosis is made with a flexible camera and investigation is required to rule out a cancer causing this issue, however the most common cause is a viral infection.
Vocal cord nodules develop as a result of trauma to the vocal cords. As the vocal cords rub together thickened areas develop which can change the voice. These nodules are often called 'singer's nodules'. Nodules usually resolve with periods of voice rest but if it is a persistent issue then voice therapy is required to improve technique.
Cysts can develop on the vocal cords secondary to blockage of small mucous producing glands. These are typical treated surgically.
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