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Jonathan Hughes | Hemel Hempstead

Voice Problems Treatment

Voice problems often stem from throat or larynx structural abnormalities, or damage to the vocal cords. There are non-surgical treatments, like voice therapy, available that can provide relief for some conditions, but for others, surgery might be the best option to restore normal vocal function. If you’re suffering from hoarseness or a change in vocal quality, it’s worth having a medical evaluation to ensure you don’t have laryngeal cancer.

Common treatments include laser technology which removes lesions or growths on the vocal cords, thyroplasty; a surgical procedure that involves repositioning the cartilage of the voice box, and phonosurgery, which focuses on correcting problems in the larynx that are affecting voice production. Botox can also be an efficient voice solution. Whether you need a solution to a medical vocal problem that’s preventing effective communication, you’re suffering from voice pitch-related problems, or you want to feminise / masculinise (deepen) your voice, Mr Jonathan Hughes can help.

Mr Jonathan Hughes is a highly experienced and skilled expert in the field of voice disorders. With his years of training and expertise, he has developed a deep understanding of the complexities of the vocal mechanism and the various conditions that can affect it.

 

If you think you might have voice problems, get in touch with your ENT specialist in London to book a consultation today!
020 3897 0667

What causes voice problems?

Voice problems can occur for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle factors. Medical conditions such as acid reflux, allergies, or respiratory infections can affect vocal health. Laryngeal cancer occurs when malignant cells develop in the tissues of the larynx, which is responsible for producing sound. This type of cancer can affect the vocal cords, leading to changes in voice quality, such as hoarseness, raspiness, or a complete loss of voice.

Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or exposure to irritants like dust or chemicals, can also contribute to voice problems. Additionally, transgender individuals who were assigned male at birth may seek voice feminisation techniques to achieve a higher pitch.

How are voice problems investigated?

Your vocal folds and surrounding structures will be investigated in the first instance. The method of the investigation will depend on the symptoms you have. Mr Jonathan Hughes may perform a laryngoscopy, which involves inserting a thin, flexible tube with a camera attached through your nose or mouth to see your vocal cords. Or a stroboscopy may be more beneficial in your individual case. This involves using a specialised light source to create slow-motion images of your vocal folds in action. It will evaluate the vibratory pattern and overall function of your vocal cords. He may even use a combination of these diagnostic tools to help him accurately diagnose and develop an appropriate treatment plan for your voice problems.

What treatment do you offer for voice problems?

If you need a surgical procedure for your voice problem, it may take the form of laser surgery, thyroplasty, or phonosurgery. Glottoplasty and laryngoplasty are surgical procedures that focus on reshaping and restructuring the vocal cords and surrounding structures to improve voice quality. But for voice disorders such as spasmodic dysphonia, Botox injections are administered. Botox works by temporarily paralysing the muscles responsible for the abnormal vocal cord movements. This reduces the spasms and improves voice quality.

Vocal cord medialisation is another solution. It involves repositioning the vocal cords to improve their function and enhance voice production. Following diagnosis, we’ll provide you with all the options available that are best suited to you regaining your normal voice function.

How do I know if I’ve got laryngeal cancer?

An early symptom of laryngeal cancer is a persistent hoarseness, or change in the voice. This hoarseness may last for more than two weeks and is not typically associated with an upper respiratory infection. Additionally, individuals with laryngeal cancer may experience difficulty swallowing or a sensation of a lump in the throat. Other symptoms can include persistent coughing, coughing up blood, or a sore throat that does not improve over time. Early detection and treatment are key in improving prognosis and outcomes for individuals with laryngeal cancer. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms it is important to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.