Voice
Trained speech-language pathologists provide an evaluation and treatment of voice disorders. An evaluation involves reviewing case history information, a perceptual voice analysis and an acoustic voice analysis via specialized instrumentation.
Vocal fold nodules are benign callous-like growths on the vocal folds that are caused by vocal abuse. The nodules will continue to increase in size if the vocal abuse continues. Symptoms include hoarseness, breathlessness, harshness, neck pain, voice fatigue and decreased pitch range.
Vocal polyps are sometimes caused by vocal abuse. They appear as a swelling or bump or a blister-like lesion. In addition, most polyps are larger than nodules. Vocal polyps have similar symptoms to vocal nodules but the primary symptom is hoarseness. The voice may also sound low-pitched or slightly breathy.
Vocal Cord Paresis or Paralysis
The vocal cords are muscles that are stimulated by the recurrent laryngeal nerve. Paralysis occurs when this nerve does not function properly. Paralysis is the total interruption of nerve impulse, causing the vocal cord to become immobile. Paresis is the partial interruption of nerve impulse, resulting in weak or abnormal motion of laryngeal muscle(s).
Spasmodic Dysphonia is a chronic voice disorder due to involuntary movements of one or more muscles of the larynx resulting in forced or strained vocal fold movement. Vocal quality is inconsistent and can be quivery, strained, or hoarse at times, and near normal at other times.
Muscle Tension Dysphonia is a disorder characterized by strained, effortful phonation due to excessive tension in the laryngeal muscles.
Parkinson's disease is a degenerative disorder of the brain and can result in impaired speech intelligibility, reduced volume,reduced articulatory precision, monopitch, hoarseness and/or a breathy vocal quality.
Individuals experiencing voice difficulties due to Parkinson's Disease may benefit from a specialized treatment program called Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT). This program focuses on high effort and high intensity(volume) to improve loudness, breath support and articulation.