The voice is produced by the cooperation of the larynx, the respiratory system and the sound system. It is produced in the area of ​​the larynx, through the vocal cords located in it. The vocal cords vibrate as air enters them from the lungs, producing sound. Voicing is the process of producing the voice, contributing to the process of communication. However, sometimes there are disturbances in the phonation process. The investigation of phonation disorders is an important part of otorhinolaryngology, in order to determine the causes of voice change.

Causes of phonation disorders

Phonation disorders are the result of malfunctions in some of the structural elements of the voice production process, such as the larynx, vocal cords and respiratory system. They are usually manifested either by hoarseness, a weak voice or a complete inability to speak, depending on the affected area and the severity of the condition. Speech disorders are divided into different categories depending on the cause of their manifestation. The causes of voice production dysfunctions are numerous, which is why the investigation of phonation disorders should include the examination of several parameters.

Phonation disorders & diseases of the larynx

Phonation disorders can arise from several causes, depending on the area of ​​their localization. If they are located in the area of ​​the larynx, they may be the result of some trauma to the larynx, but also in inflammatory diseases involving this particular structure. These include acute or chronic laryngitis, caused by a viral infection, which causes hoarseness or even loss of voice. Laryngopharyngeal Reflux can also cause voice disorders. In this condition the liquids contained in the stomach return to the larynx region, causing unpleasant symptoms such as dysphagia, hoarseness, cough and swelling. The appearance of a malignant tumor in the area of ​​the larynx, i.e. cancer, can cause difficulties in voice production.

Phonation disorders & diseases of the vocal cords

Diseases of the vocal cords, located inside the larynx, can also affect the voice production process. Such conditions include polyps, nodules, cysts, or Reinke’s edema on the vocal cords. At the same time, some neurological damage such as spasmodic dysphonia or paralysis of one or both vocal cords as well as the existence of some trauma to them can cause difficulty during phonation.

The causes of speech disorders include psychological causes, but also poor or excessive use of the voice. Endocrine diseases such as hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism are among the causes that intensify the difficulty of voice production. Manifested symptoms include frequent vocal fatigue, hoarseness, hoarse timbre or low voice volume, inability for pitch variation and wheezing.

Investigation of phonation disorders: Process

ENT Surgeon in Athens Dr. Olga Papadopoulou conducts the investigation of phonation disorders to evaluate, diagnose and formulate a treatment plan to restore the patient’s voice. A detailed history is taken. Any previous upper respiratory tract infection or conditions involving the thyroid gland are important to be identified.

Then, a clinical examination is carried out with a check of the nose, neck and ear area, and at the same time the vocal cords are examined using a rigid or flexible endoscope. Then, additional testing, such as a CT scan or fine needle biopsy, may be needed. Then, the therapeutic approach is appropriately formulated to cure the condition that causes the phonation disorders.