Spasmodic Dysphonia

What is Spasmodic Dysphonia and What are the Symptoms?

Spasmodic dysphonia is a focal dystonia of the laryngeal (voice box) muscles that begins in adulthood. Spasms in the laryngeal muscles cause interruptions in the voice during speech. Symptoms in SD patients usually occur during voluntary speech. The voice is produced with difficulty by the patient. The resulting voice is hoarse, strained and requires effort. In advanced cases, the voice may be very inadequate and uncomfortable for both the speaker and the listener. Patients may have no symptoms at rest or during reflex phonation (coughing, crying, laughing, yawning, etc.). During singing or whispering, symptoms may increase or decrease. Although the mechanisms behind this condition are not yet fully understood, some diseases and environmental factors are believed to play a role in its development.

What Causes Spasmodic Dysphonia?

SD can occur in combination with other dystonias (such as blepharospasm and torticollis) and neurological diseases (such as Parkinson's, Wilson's, Huntington's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis). Environmental factors thought to trigger SD include infections, trauma, stress and certain medications. This condition can affect quality of life and lead to severe social, occupational and psychiatric impairment.

What are the Treatment Methods for Spasmodic Dysphonia?

Treatments such as speech therapy, injections into the vocal cords and surgical interventions can be effective.