 Spasmodic
Dysphonia
What is Spasmodic Dysphonia?
Spasmodic dysphonia is a form of dystonia which makes the vocal cords
not behave as they should. This creates interruptions while speaking and
affects a person's voice quality. There are two types of spasmodic dysphonia,
adductor and abductor. The adductor type is an abnormal contraction of
the vocal cord muscles. This creates interruptions in speech. The abductor
type is an overcontraction of the muscles that separate the vocal cords.
This creates a whispery voice. The cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown.
Who Gets Spasmodic Dysphonia?
Anyone can get spasmodic dysphonia, but people around the age of 50 seem
to be more affected.
How is Spasmodic Dysphonia Diagnosed?
There is no definitive test for spasmodic dysphonia. After taking the
patient's history, a team of physicians will evaluate the patient. A neurologist
will look for neurological reasons for the dysphonia through the use of
electrodiagnosis or other tests. A speech-language pathologist will check
voice quality, and an otolaryngologist will look at the vocal cords.
How is Spasmodic Dysphonia Treated?
There is no cure for spasmodic dysphonia. Treatment is designed to help
the symptoms of the disorder. Botulinum toxin injections may be used to
help relax the muscles around the vocal cords, allowing for normal speech.
Unfortunately, this is only a temporary solution and repeated injections
are necessary. Speech therapy can be helpful, showing a person how to
adjust their speech to fit the dystonia. In some cases, surgery may helpful.
To Find a Specialist
To find a physician board-certified to conduct needle EMGs and nerve conduction
studies click here: www.abemexam.org
For More Information
Dystonia Medical Research Foundation: www.dystonia-foundation.org
American Speech-Language-Hearing Association: www.asha.org
National Spasmodic Dystonia Association: www.dysphonia.org
National Institutes of Health: www.nidcd.nih.gov
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