Voice Disorders

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, you can access exceptional care for voice disorders. As a global leader in otorhinolaryngology and head and neck surgery, we are an academic-based, national and international referral site for the most complex and high-risk cases. For over a century, we have been at the forefront of innovation, research and clinical care for ear, nose and throat (ENT) and head and neck conditions.

Ranked in the top 1% of all hospitals in the nation for complex specialty care according to U.S. News & World Report, Montefiore Einstein continues to make advances in the diagnosis and treatment of ENT and head and neck conditions. Our multidisciplinary team of world-renowned specialists has pioneered many of the otorhinolaryngological techniques used today and is passionate about uncovering the latest diagnostic approaches and treatments that can improve outcomes.

At Montefiore Einstein Otorhinolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, you can expect compassionate, personalized, research-driven treatment plans that meet the highest standards for quality and safety.

When you need care for voice disorders, turn to our dedicated providers who will develop a highly personalized treatment plan.

Anyone can develop a voice problem, but your risk is greatest if your job puts a high demand on your vocal cords. For example, singers, preachers and teachers have high-risk jobs when it comes to voice disorders. Aging also strains the vocal cords. If you scream or talk loudly, you increase your risk for voice problems. If you have ever had surgery on or near your vocal cords, are a smoker or have had throat cancer, your risk for developing scar tissue and future voice problems increases as well.

Common causes of voice disorders include:

• Laryngitis
• Leukoplakia, or white patches on the inside surfaces of the mouth
• Polyps, nodules or cysts on the vocal cords
• Precancerous or cancerous growth
• Vocal cord paralysis or weakness

Typically, symptoms that mean you may have a voice problem include:

• A low, raspy or rough voice
• Feeling out of breath or tired when you talk for a while
• Feeling like you have to force your voice out
• Coughing or choking when you swallow
• Hoarseness that continues for more than two weeks and isn’t associated with a cold/flu

Your doctor can usually diagnose a voice problem based on a review of your medical history and a physical exam, along with an evaluation of vocal cord vibration, called a Stroboscopy. This helps your doctor pinpoint the cause of your voice problem.

Treatment for voice disorders depends on the type and underlying cause of the condition and may include:

• Allergy treatments
• Prescription medication to reduce swelling or inflammation, treat gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
• Quitting smoking
• Voice therapy
• Surgery for growths or damage at the vocal folds
• Injections to reduce muscle overactivity in certain neurological disorders (like Laryngeal Dystonia)