Spasmodic dysphonia

Spasmodic dysphonia (pronounced: spaz-MOD-ik dis-FOH-nee-uh) is a neurological disorder affecting the voice box or larynx. It is characterized by involuntary movements or spasms of the muscles in the larynx during speech.

Etymology

The term "spasmodic dysphonia" is derived from the Greek words "spasmos" (spasm) and "dysphonia" (difficulty in speaking).

Symptoms

The primary symptom of spasmodic dysphonia is a voice that may sound strained, broken, breathy, or whispery. The severity of the symptoms can vary from person to person and may even vary in the same person throughout the day.

Causes

The exact cause of spasmodic dysphonia is unknown. However, it is believed to be related to a problem in the basal ganglia, a part of the brain responsible for controlling the muscles involved in producing speech.

Treatment

Treatment for spasmodic dysphonia often involves speech therapy and may also include botulinum toxin injections into the affected muscles of the larynx. In some cases, surgery may be considered.

Related Terms

• Dysphonia
• Larynx
• Neurological disorder
• Basal ganglia
• Speech therapy
• Botulinum toxin

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Spasmodic dysphonia
• Wikipedia's article - Spasmodic dysphonia

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