Introduction
Laryngology is a branch of medicine that deals with disorders, diseases and injuries that occur in the larynx or commonly known as the voice box. The voice box or is larynx situated on the front of the neck and it holds the vocal cords. It performs important functions, like sound production and breathing. The medical professionals who specialize in laryngology are called laryngologists. At ENT Head and Neck Clinic, we have some of the best laryngologists who are determined to treat patients with care and precision.
Common conditions treated by laryngologists
Here is an overview of common larynx-related conditions treated at ENT Head and Neck Clinic.
Laryngitis
Laryngitis is an inflammation of the larynx (voice box) due to overuse or infection. Acute laryngitis is common and does not always require medical attention but if laryngitis is left ignored and lasts for more than three weeks then it is called chronic laryngitis, a very severe health condition.
Few common causes responsible for Laryngitis (both acute and chronic):
- Bacterial or viral infections
- Strain in the voice due to overuse
- Acid reflux or GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
- Chronic sinusitis
- Smoking
- Excessive consumption of alcohol
- Cancer
- Vocal cord paralysis
Some common signs and symptoms of Laryngitis:
- Sore throat
- Dry throat
- Dry cough
- Hoarse voice
- Loss of voice
- Tickling sensation in the throat
- Trouble in breathing
- Blood in the cough
- Fever that lasts for many days
- Excruciating and never-ending pain
Treatment for Chronic Laryngitis:
- Antibiotics
- Corticosteroids
- Voice therapy (in some cases)
Dysphagia
Dysphagia is a medical condition in which one finds it difficult to swallow anything. It is a very bothersome situation and requires medical help if the symptoms persist.
Few common causes responsible for Dysphagia:
- Blockage in the throat or esophagus
- Certain health conditions of the esophagus, like achalasia, esophageal stricture, esophageal tumors, eosinophilic esophagitis, scleroderma, esophageal ring, and so on.
- GERD (Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease)
- Radiation therapy
Some common signs and symptoms of Dysphagia:
- Pain and difficulty while swallowing
- Drooling
- Feeling of blockage in the throat
- Frequent heartburn
- Regurgitation of food
- Unintentional weight loss
- Coughing or gagging when swallowing food
Treatment for Dysphagia:
- Learning exercises and swallowing techniques
- Medications
- Surgery
- Special liquid diet
Dysphonia
Dysphonia refers to having an abnormally hoarse voice.
Few common causes responsible for Dysphonia:
- Laryngitis
- Allergy
- Laryngopharyngeal reflux
- Abnormal growth on the vocal cords (nodules, polyps, and cysts)
- Vocal cord paralysis
Some common signs and symptoms of Dysphonia:
- Husky, hoarse or rough voice
- Strained or tight voice
- Tender or sore neck
Treatment for Dysphonia:
- Medications
- Botox injections
- Surgery (in severe cases)
Vocal cord hemorrhage
Vocal cord hemorrhage can happen due to trauma in the vocal cords caused by strenuous voice activities.
Few common causes responsible for Vocal Cord Hemorrhage:
- Singing, shouting, cheering, and talking for prolonged hours
- Blood thinners
- Side-effects of over-the-counter drugs
Some common signs and symptoms of Vocal Cord Hemorrhage:
- Mild or severe hoarseness in the voice
- Neck pain
- Acute loss of voice or vocal range
Treatment for Vocal Cord Hemorrhage:
- Voice rest
- Surgery
Apart from the above conditions, we also provide optimal care for other larynx-related conditions, like Vocal cord paralysis, Laryngopharyngeal reflux, Laryngeal cancer, and so on. Feel free to get in touch with ENT Head and Neck Clinic for receiving economical and ultimate Throat Care.
