Voice
A voice disorder is a condition that affects the quality, pitch, loudness, or flexibility of a person's voice. Voice disorders can be caused by various factors, including physical injury, medical conditions, vocal misuse or abuse, or psychological factors.
Common types of voice disorders include:
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Vocal nodules or polyps: These are growths on the vocal cords that can develop due to vocal abuse or misuse, leading to hoarseness or a change in voice quality.
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Vocal cord paralysis: This occurs when one or both vocal cords are unable to move or vibrate properly, resulting in a weak, breathy, or hoarse voice.
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Laryngitis: This is inflammation of the vocal cords, often due to infection, overuse, or irritation, resulting in a hoarse or raspy voice.
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Muscle tension dysphonia: This is a voice disorder caused by excessive tension in the muscles around the larynx (voice box), leading to a strained or effortful voice.
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Functional dysphonia: This is a voice disorder that occurs without any physical or structural abnormalities but is often related to vocal misuse, stress, or psychological factors.
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Reflux laryngitis: This is a condition where stomach acid backs up into the throat, causing irritation and inflammation of the vocal cords, leading to voice changes.
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Treatment for voice disorders depends on the underlying cause and may include voice therapy, medication, surgery, or a combination of these approaches. Speech-language pathologists and otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors) are healthcare professionals who specialize in diagnosing and treating voice disorders.