{"id":3700,"date":"2020-04-26T15:54:53","date_gmt":"2020-04-26T11:54:53","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/kingscollegehospitaldubai.com\/?post_type=service&p=3700"},"modified":"2024-09-27T11:04:18","modified_gmt":"2024-09-27T11:04:18","slug":"laryngology","status":"publish","type":"service","link":"https:\/\/kingscollegehospitaldubai.com\/ar\/service\/ent\/laryngology\/","title":{"rendered":"Laryngology"},"content":{"rendered":"
Laryngology is a subspecialty within otolaryngology (ear, nose and throat) that deals with injuries and illnesses of the larynx, often called the voice box. It sits in the front of the neck and contains the vocal cords. The larynx is responsible for swallowing and sound production, and is also the entrance to the windpipe, hence it plays a critical role to the airway.<\/p>\n
A laryngologist is a surgeon with a special interest in airway, voice and swallowing disorders involving the throat and the voice box.<\/p>\n
There are many conditions which can affect the larynx, including:<\/p>\n
The vocal cords can also be affected due to surgical procedures such as thyroid, cardiac, spine, thoracic and vascular surgeries. Placement of a breathing tube during hospitalization or anaesthesia can also sometimes be related to problems in the voice box.<\/p>\n
There are several benign vocal cord conditions caused by vocal abuse, overuse and misuse. Several disorders of the larynx can be caused by injury or strain to the vocal cords through excessive talking, coughing, throat clearing, smoking, singing, screaming, or speaking too low or too loudly.<\/p>\n
Eventually the frequent vocal misuse and abuse can cause changes in vocal function and result in hoarseness. (Hoarseness which lasts longer than 2-4 weeks without explanation should always be evaluated by an otolaryngologist.)<\/p>\n
Diseases of the larynx are usually diagnosed by an otolaryngologist or a laryngologist. He\/she will first perform a physical examination which includes a mirror or scope exam so as to visualize the throat and the larynx. Depending on the symptoms, other tests may be needed. These include, biopsies, imaging studies or an additional endoscopic examination.<\/p>\n
If the doctor suspects vocal cord paralysis, he\/she first confirms this with a scope examination. In some situations, the doctor can also order a laryngeal electromyography (LEMG). This test is for measuring the nerve input to the laryngeal muscles, and it can also help diagnose and predict if the patient will recover vocal cord function.<\/p>\n
Treatments for conditions affecting the larynx vary depending on the diagnosis. Treatment for conditions caused by vocal abuse, overuse or misuse may be as simple as resting the voice. Singing or voice therapy might also be recommended. This is usually performed by a speech-language pathologist.<\/p>\n
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these treatments may be used to treat laryngeal cancer. Surgery may also be required to treat polyps, nodules or cysts. Treatment for conditions of the vocal cords or larynx are highly individual, depending on age, condition and profession.<\/p>\n
Cutting back on drinking alcohol or quitting smoking can help in preventing laryngeal cancer. Taking proper care not to strain the voice through misuse or excessive use can prevent conditions such as nodules and polyps. This is especially important for singers, teachers or lawyers who spend most of their time using their voice. Taking your time to rest your voice, controlling irritating factors reflux or allergy and maintaining physical fitness can help in preventing these conditions.<\/p>\n
Most conditions affecting the larynx are treatable especially if medical attention is sought early.<\/p>\n
At King\u2019s College Hospital Dubai, we focus on offering an exemplary service from initial consultation through to the final diagnosis and treatment and beyond. Our team of expert doctors and nurses are here to offer tailored management and treatment of your condition, and to answer any questions that you might have throughout your time with us. Whatever you need us for, we\u2019re only a phone-call away.<\/p>\n
If you\u2019d like to book an appointment, simply fill in the appointment form below.<\/p>\n
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