Voice, Swallowing, and Upper Airway Disorders
Hoarseness is one of the most common reasons patients seek evaluation from a laryngologist. Hoarseness can mean many things and, often, "I lost my voice" can mean something different to each of us. Voice changes may mean: roughness, raspiness, breathiness, vocal strain, increased vocal effort, vocal fatigue, reduced vocal endurance, changes in pitch, or difficulty projecting the voice.
While many cases are temporary, persistent hoarseness lasting longer than 2 weeks may indicate an underlying voice disorder that deserves evaluation by a voice specialist.
Patients should seek evaluation if hoarseness lasts longer than 2 weeks, significantly affects communication, or develops without a clear explanation.
Professional voice users such as singers, teachers, attorneys, clergy, broadcasters, public speakers, salespeople, and many more may benefit from evaluation even when symptoms appear mild.
Evaluation begins with a thorough history and examination, which includes visualization of the vocal folds and assessment of vocal function to identify the underlying cause of voice changes.
Treatment is individualized and depends on the underlying diagnosis.
Dr. Pasick has specialized training in caring for professional voice users whose careers rely on optimal voice function. Treatment plans are tailored to the specific vocal demands of each patient.