Therapeutic Treatment of Voice and Swallowing Disorders
The voice is one of the most basic tools of communication and expression. When there is an alteration in the timbre of the voice for a prolonged period of time, it is likely that there is a disorder that requires specialized evaluation. If the voice becomes hoarse and remains so, it is necessary to consult an otolaryngologist and, then, a speech pathologist specialized in voice disorders.
The most common voice disorders
The most common voice disorders include hyperfunctional dysphonias related to poor vocal use, a phenomenon particularly common in professional voice users, such as teachers, singers and lawyers. Also, voice disorders occur in neurological or oncological patients, especially after operations such as laryngectomy or radiotherapy.
How can a speech pathologist intervene?
A speech pathologist can effectively intervene in conditions such as vocal cord paralysis, chordectomy, polyps, vocal nodules, myotonia, psychogenic aphonia, dystonias and neurogenic dysarthria. The treatment is based on specialized equipment and is adapted to the needs of each patient. The duration and frequency of sessions vary depending on the cause and severity of the condition.
Dysphagia
At the same time, dysphagia, the difficulty in transporting food or liquids from the mouth to the stomach, may also be a significant problem. It is a condition that can occur at any age and is associated with various diseases, such as head/neck tumors, strokes, dementia, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and other neurological or oncological diseases.
What are the symptoms of dysphagia?
Symptoms of dysphagia include weight loss, dehydration, coughing while eating, feeling of a lump in the throat or residue, prolonged chewing or feeding time and frequent respiratory infections due to aspiration.
Speech pathology intervention is crucial and includes the evaluation of the structures swallowing and the individualized creation of a treatment plan. The techniques aim to improve swallowing, stabilize it and in some cases, prevent complications, such as in oncology patients. The intervention is supported by specialized equipment that is applied based on the needs of each patient.
The therapeutic treatment of voice and swallowing disorders is an essential part of restoring quality of life for hundreds of patients. Early diagnosis and intervention by a specialized speech pathologist can contribute substantially to restoring voice and feeding ability, enhancing autonomy and safety in everyday life.
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