Voice cords are located in the throat, consist of muscle and connective tissue, are very elastic, and form the vocal slit between them. The main functions of the cords are to prevent foreign particles from entering the respiratory tract and to produce sound. The most common disease of the voice cords is laryngitis.
Causes
In most cases, the cause of inflammation of the voice cords is various infections, including influenza, pneumonia, as well as allergies. Inflammation can also be triggered by excessively dusty and dry air, heavy vocal strain, chronic diseases of the nasopharynx, breathing disorders, an unfavorable environment, hypothermia, smoking and alcohol, and stress.
Symptoms of Voice Cord Diseases
Inflamed voice cords increase in size, thereby reducing the vocal slit. The patient's voice becomes hoarse or may completely disappear, a painful barking cough appears, along with a feeling of dryness and burning, the sensation of a foreign body in the throat, breathing becomes difficult, and fever may rise. If no measures are taken to treat the cords, a complication of the disease may arise – laryngospasm.
Diagnosis of Voice Cord Diseases in Israel
Diagnosis of laryngeal disease by specialists in Israel begins with taking a medical history. Laryngoscopy using laryngeal endoscopes is mandatory. A method of observing the movement of the voice cords with pulsing light of the appropriate wavelengths – stroboscopy – is used. To clarify the diagnosis, a CT scan, biopsy, or consultation with an oncologist may be performed.
Treatment of Voice Cord Diseases in Israel
In Israel, various methods are used to treat voice cords. Speech therapy allows for the management of the cords and sometimes helps avoid surgical intervention. To reduce inflammation, medication is used, but not for long, as it has side effects. If necessary, a surgical method is applied that leaves no traces, as it is performed without external incisions. To remove benign tumors in the throat, microsurgery is used. Malignant tumors at an early stage are removed using laser irradiation. Paralysis of the voice cords can be treated by implanting devices. For neurological disorders, Botox injections are used. To prevent voice cord diseases, one should avoid excessive vocal strain, refrain from harmful habits, avoid hypothermia, and stay away from places with dry and dusty air.