Why Voice And Throat Care Is Important
The voice and throat are often overlooked, but the truth is that they are among the most important aspects of our general well-being. Without taking proper care of our vocal health, it is possible for our vocal cords to become weaker and less flexible over time.
That said, the throat is a very delicate part of the respiratory system. It is what allows us to breathe properly as well as safely consume food and liquids. Due to the sensitive nature of the throat, it is especially important to take care of it by not overusing it and keeping yourself healthy.
What Can Impact Voice And Throat Health?
The voice and throat work hand-in-hand. The vocal cords are located within the larynx, which open as we breathe and close whenever we swallow something or speak. When we speak, air passes through the vocal cords, which causes them to vibrate. Your vocal cords can vibrate more than 100 times per second. How much they vibrate depends on the pitch you make your voice. When perfectly healthy, the throat, voice box, and vocal cords work together.
However, specific problems can impact how your throat feels and how your voice sounds, which include the following:
- You are overusing your voice.
- You have contracted an upper respiratory infection.
- You have inflammation caused by acid reflux.
- There are growths on your vocal cords.
- You have larynx cancer.
- You are suffering from tonsillitis.
Lifestyle choices and medical conditions can affect the throat, such as smoking, drinking, allergies, and suffering from a bacterial infection.
What Can Be Done To Treat Voice And Throat Ailments?
If your voice and throat problems do not resolve with conventional methods, Dr. Daneshrad can help. Dr. Daneshrad is a board-certified ENT specializing in procedures like tonsillectomy, digital video stroboscopy, and microflap excisions.
What Is A Tonsillectomy?
A tonsillectomy is a standard procedure where the tonsils are surgically removed. The tonsils are the first line of defense against pathogens and harmful bacteria. Because the tonsils are constantly exposed to these pathogens, it is possible for them to become inflamed or infected. If either condition is severe enough, they may need to be surgically removed to prevent any further issues.
What Is A Digital Videostroboscopy?
A digital video stroboscopy is an endoscopic procedure used to assess a person’s voice box and vocal cords. It is a minimally invasive procedure as an endoscope will be inserted via the mouth. This procedure can help the doctor detect irregularities or abnormal growths occurring with the vocal cords or voice box.
What Is A Microflap Excision?
A microflap excision is a rather advanced surgical operation that removes any kind of lesions or cysts located on the vocal cords. Having cysts or lesions on your vocal cords can make speaking difficult, cause breathing issues, and put you at risk for cancer.