Conditions Treated

Do you find yourself constantly coughing or clearing your throat, even though you don't have a cold or any other respiratory illness? Chronic refractory cough or throat clearing can be frustrating and even debilitating, but there is hope.

Symptoms

• Frequent coughing: Individuals with chronic refractory cough often experience a persistent, non-productive cough that interrupts their daily activities and sleep.
• Throat irritation: The constant coughing or clearing can lead to throat irritation, soreness, and discomfort.
• Breathing difficulties: Some individuals may experience shortness of breath or wheezing as well.

Diagnosis and medical evaluation for chronic refractory cough

In cases where the underlying cause is complex or difficult to diagnose, your healthcare provider may refer you to Idaho Voice and Swallow Center, or you may choose to consult with us on your own.

We offer the evaluations and experience to help you on the road to relief.

If you've noticed a change in your vocal quality, whether it be hoarseness, strain, or weakness, it can significantly impact your ability to communicate effectively. It's essential to understand the underlying causes.

Several factors can contribute to these changes, including vocal cord damage, vocal nodules, vocal polyps, muscle tension dysphonia, and even certain medical conditions like acid reflux or allergies. To accurately diagnose the issue, a thorough examination by a qualified voice specialist is crucial.

We will help to develop a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals.

Voice hoarseness is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Whether it's a temporary annoyance or a chronic issue, there are treatment options available.

Common symptoms of voice hoarseness

• Voice quality change: One of the primary indicators of hoarseness is a change in the quality of your voice. You may notice that your voice sounds rough, raspy, or strained, making it challenging to speak clearly. Additionally, you may experience vocal fatigue, meaning your voice gets tired quickly, even with minimal use.
• Reduced vocal range: Another symptom of voice hoarseness is a reduced vocal range. You may find it difficult to hit high or low notes when singing, or struggle to maintain a consistent pitch. Some individuals also report a sensation of throat discomfort or a lump-like feeling in their throat, which can be accompanied by mild pain or irritation.

It's important to note that voice hoarseness can vary in severity and duration. While some individuals may only experience occasional hoarseness that resolves on its own, others may have a persistent hoarse voice that lasts for weeks or longer. If you're unsure whether your voice issues constitute hoarseness, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Causes of voice hoarseness

When your vocal cords become inflamed, they fail to vibrate smoothly. This inflammation can be caused by factors such as respiratory infections, allergies, or excessive voice use.

Vocal abuse is another leading cause of voice hoarseness. This occurs when you strain or overuse your voice, putting excessive stress on your vocal cords. Additionally, habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can irritate the vocal cords.

Certain medical conditions can also cause voice hoarseness. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), for example, is a condition where stomach acid flows back into the esophagus, causing irritation and inflammation of the vocal cords.

Diagnosing voice hoarseness

No matter the cause, it's essential to seek medical evaluation for an accurate diagnosis. Idaho Voice and Swallow Center has the diagnostic capabilities to get you on the road to recovering your voice.

Are you finding it difficult to catch your breath and experiencing frequent episodes of shortness of breath during physical activity? It could be a result of a condition known as Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD) or Exercise-Induced Laryngeal Obstruction (EILO).

VCD occurs when the vocal cords close instead of opening during inhalation. On the other hand, EILO is triggered by strenuous exercise, causing the larynx to tighten, obstructing the airway. Both conditions can mimic asthma symptoms, making them difficult to diagnose.

Fortunately, Idaho Voice and Swallow Center has the diagnostic resources to test for these conditions, and there are non-invasive treatment options available.

Are your vocal chords feeling strained and tired? It's time to reclaim your voice and restore its strength. Vocal fatigue and pain can be caused by a variety of factors, such as overuse, improper technique, stress, or underlying medical conditions. We can help diagnose and treat your concerns.

Some symptoms of vocal fatigue include:

• Loss of normal inflection
• Constant throat clearing
• Sensation of painful lump in the throat
• Difficulty talking
• Loss of voice
• Hoarse voice
• Changes in pitch
• Squeaking or catching on words or phrases
• Vocal chords feeling worn out

As we age, our bodies go through numerous changes, and the voice is no exception. Presbyphonia involves a variety of vocal symptoms such as diminished volume, decreased pitch range, and poorer vocal quality. It can be caused by a combination of factors, including the natural aging process, hormonal changes, and vocal fold atrophy.

The good news is that there are strategies and exercises that can help maintain vocal health and potentially slow down the progression of presbyphonia.

Whether you are a professional singer, public speaker, or someone who simply wants to preserve their voice, Idaho Voice and Swallow Center is here to help.

Your voice is a powerful tool, allowing you to express your thoughts and emotions effortlessly. But what happens when a neurologic condition interferes with your ability to communicate effectively?

Neurologic voice change can be caused by a range of conditions such as Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, and stroke. It can manifest as a weak or raspy voice, difficulty in projecting or modulating pitch, and even total loss of voice. These changes can significantly impact your quality of life, affecting personal and professional relationships.

Fortunately, advancements in medical research and technology have led to innovative treatments and therapies. Our specialized diagnostic tools such as laryngoscopy or videostroboscopy can be used to assess the movement and vibration of your vocal cords. These tests provide valuable insights into the functioning of your voice apparatus and can aid in determining the underlying cause of your voice changes.

Speech therapy is often the first line of treatment for neurologic voice change. Idaho Voice and Swallow Center can work with you to develop a customized therapy plan that targets the specific aspects of your voice that have been affected.

Are you finding it difficult to hit those high notes or maintain control over your voice? You're not alone. Many individuals, from aspiring singers to seasoned performers, face challenges with their singing voice. Fortunately, there are therapies that can help you unlock your true vocal potential.

Let's understand the common issues that singers encounter:

• Vocal Strain and Fatigue
• Limited Vocal Range
• Lack of Vocal Control

Resolving Singing Voice Problems

Speech therapy can be highly effective in addressing vocal strain and fatigue. We can identify any underlying issues and create a targeted treatment plan. Through exercises, vocal warm-ups, and relaxation techniques, you can learn how to alleviate strain, reduce fatigue, and maintain a healthy vocal mechanism. This will allow you to sing with ease and confidence, without the fear of damaging your voice.

Dysphagia can manifest in various ways, depending on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common symptoms you may experience if you have dysphagia:

• Discomfort while swallowing

  One of the most common symptoms of dysphagia is experiencing discomfort or pain while swallowing. This can range from a mild irritation to severe pain, depending on the cause of the condition.

• Sensation of food sticking in the throat

  Another symptom of dysphagia is the feeling that food is getting stuck in your throat or chest. This can be accompanied by a choking sensation and may require you to drink liquids or cough in order to clear the obstruction.

• Coughing or choking while eating or drinking

  If you frequently cough or choke while eating or drinking, it could be a sign of dysphagia. This occurs when the muscles involved in swallowing are not functioning properly, leading to food or liquid entering the airway instead of the esophagus.

• Regurgitation

  Dysphagia can also cause regurgitation, which is the backward flow of food or stomach contents into the mouth. This can happen immediately after swallowing or even hours later, depending on the severity of the condition.

• Weight loss or malnutrition

  If dysphagia is severe or long-lasting, it can lead to weight loss or malnutrition. Difficulty swallowing can make it challenging to consume enough food and nutrients, resulting in unintended weight loss and nutritional deficiencies.

It's important to note that these symptoms can vary in intensity and frequency depending on the individual and the underlying cause of dysphagia. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

Types of Dysphagia

Dysphagia can be categorized into two main types: oropharyngeal dysphagia and esophageal dysphagia.

• Oropharyngeal dysphagia

  This type of dysphagia originates in the mouth or throat and is often caused by problems with the muscles or nerves that control swallowing. Common causes of oropharyngeal dysphagia include neurological disorders such as stroke, Parkinson's disease, or multiple sclerosis, as well as muscular conditions like myasthenia gravis.

• Esophageal dysphagia

  Esophageal dysphagia refers to difficulties in swallowing that arise from a blockage or narrowing of the esophagus. This can be caused by conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), esophageal strictures, or esophageal cancer. Other factors, such as certain medications, can also contribute to esophageal dysphagia.

At Idaho Voice and Swallow Center, we can identify the type of dysphagia you have, which is crucial in determining the appropriate course of action.