Voice & Swallowing

Dysphagia, or difficulty swallowing, is a condition that can affect individuals of all ages and often involves problems in the throat or esophagus, making it challenging to move food or liquids from the mouth to the stomach. Symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe issues like pain while swallowing, choking, or even regurgitation of food. Diagnosis typically involves a thorough evaluation by an ENT specialist, which may include imaging studies, endoscopic examinations, and swallowing tests. Early diagnosis and management are crucial to prevent complications such as malnutrition and aspiration pneumonia.

Dysphonia, commonly referred to as hoarseness or voice disorders, is a condition characterized by abnormal voice quality, pitch, loudness, or vocal effort that impairs communication. It can result from various causes, including vocal cord inflammation, overuse or misuse of the voice, growths on the vocal cords, neurological disorders, and acid reflux. Symptoms of dysphonia may include a raspy or strained voice, difficulty projecting the voice, vocal fatigue, or complete loss of voice. An ENT specialist diagnoses dysphonia through a comprehensive evaluation, which may include laryngoscopy to visualize the vocal cords and other diagnostic tests. Treatment depends on the underlying cause and may involve voice therapy, medications, lifestyle modifications, or surgical interventions to remove lesions. Early evaluation and treatment are essential to restore optimal voice function and prevent long-term vocal damage

Laryngopharyngeal reflux disorder (LPRD), often referred to as silent reflux, occurs when stomach acid flows back into the esophagus and reaches the throat and larynx. Unlike gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), LPRD may not cause typical heartburn but can lead to a range of symptoms such as hoarseness, chronic cough, throat clearing, a sensation of a lump in the throat, and swallowing difficulties. These symptoms result from the irritation and inflammation of the throat and vocal cords due to the acidic content. LPRD can be triggered by dietary habits, obesity, smoking, and certain medications. Diagnosis typically involves a combination of symptom assessment and endoscopic examination. Treatment focuses on lifestyle and dietary modifications, such as avoiding trigger foods, eating smaller meals, and not lying down after eating, along with medications to reduce acid production.

A sore throat, or pharyngitis, is a common condition characterized by pain, irritation, or scratchiness in the throat, often making swallowing uncomfortable. Sore throats can be caused by viral infections, such as the common cold or flu, bacterial infections like strep throat, allergies, dry air, or irritants like smoke. Symptoms may include a hoarse voice, swollen glands, fever, and redness in the throat. While many sore throats resolve on their own with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter remedies, persistent or severe cases, may require evaluation by an ENT specialist. Depending on the cause, treatment may involve antibiotics for bacterial infections, a course of steroids, or other targeted therapies. If sore throats are recurrent or linked to other conditions, such as sleep apnea, acid reflux, or chronic sinusitis, an ENT specialist can provide a comprehensive assessment and recommend appropriate interventions to relieve symptoms and prevent future occurrences.

A chronic cough is a persistent cough that lasts for more than eight weeks and can be a symptom of various underlying conditions. It may be accompanied by other symptoms such as runny nose, congestion, heartburn, or wheezing. Common causes include postnasal drip, chronic sinus infections, asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and chronic bronchitis. Chronic cough can significantly impact your quality of life, leading to discomfort, disrupted sleep, and fatigue. If you are experiencing a chronic cough, it's important to consult an ENT specialist who can evaluate your symptoms, identify the underlying cause, and recommend an appropriate treatment plan.This may involve managing sinus conditions, adjusting medications, or addressing reflux. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to managing the condition effectively and improving your overall well-being.