Phoniatrics
Phoniatrics
Phoniatrics (pronounced: /fəʊnaɪˈætrɪks/) is a branch of medicine that deals with the anatomy, physiology, and pathology of the voice and its disorders. The term is derived from the Greek words "phone" meaning "voice" and "iatros" meaning "doctor".
Etymology
The term "Phoniatrics" is derived from the Greek words "phone" (φωνή), meaning "voice", and "iatros" (ἰατρός), meaning "doctor". Thus, it can be translated as "the medical science of the voice".
Related Terms
- Laryngology: A branch of medicine that deals with disorders, diseases and injuries of the vocal apparatus, especially the larynx.
- Speech-language pathology: A field of expertise practiced by a clinician known as a speech-language pathologist (SLP), also called speech and language therapist, or speech therapist, who specializes in the evaluation and treatment of communication disorders, voice disorders, and swallowing disorders.
- Audiology: A branch of science that studies hearing, balance, and related disorders. Audiologists treat those with hearing loss and proactively prevent related damage.
Disorders Treated
Phoniatricians treat a variety of voice disorders, including:
- Dysphonia: A condition in which the voice sounds hoarse or strained. It may be caused by a misalignment of the vocal folds.
- Aphonia: A condition characterized by the inability to speak. This may be due to damage to the voice box or its nerves.
- Vocal cord nodules and polyps: These are noncancerous growths on the vocal cords that can cause a raspy or breathy voice.
Treatment Methods
Phoniatricians use a variety of treatment methods, including:
- Voice therapy: This is a type of therapy that involves exercises and techniques to improve voice quality.
- Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to remove nodules or polyps from the vocal cords.
- Medication: Certain medications can help to reduce inflammation and swelling in the vocal cords.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Phoniatrics
- Wikipedia's article - Phoniatrics
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