What is a Voice Disorder

Voice disorders (medically known as dysphonia) are caused by something wrong in the vocal tract, which is comprised of the voice box (larynx), respiratory system (lungs and windpipe), and the spaces above the voice box, such as the tongue, mouth, soft palate, nose and pharynx.

The Larynx (voice box)

Voice disorders may be due to an organic or structural problem. Some are born with abnormalities to the voice box, or they may be acquired at any stage in life.  There may be discomfort in the vocal tract accompanying the voice disorder.  Sometimes voice problems are caused by underlying stresses or emotional imbalances which are expressed through the voice.

The best way to realise what is wrong with the voice is to have it examined.  This can be done when awake (fibre-optic nasoendoscopy) or when asleep (microlayrngobroncoscopy). This is usually done by an ENT specialist.

Some people require surgery to improve the voice, others need medication and many usually need voice therapy from a qualified Speech and Language Therapist specialising in voice disorders.   Surgery is not normally recommended for young children unless they  have a life-threatening disorder to manage the airway.  This is because the vocal folds in young children are still developing and surgery may result in long-term scarring affecting vocal function.