Voice and Swallowing Disorders

Overview of Voice and Vocal Function

• Listening to someone's voice involves perceptual analysis.
• Speech-language pathologists utilize specific attributes to describe a person's voice.
• Common terms related to vocal folds are discussed in detail.

Vocal Folds

• The human voice is produced through the vibration of two vocal folds.
• The space between the vocal folds is referred to as the glottis.
• Importance of observing the vocal folds during their motion at the midline is emphasized.

Vocal Fold Movement

Abduction and Adduction

• Abduction of the Vocal Folds:
  • Vocal folds are spaced apart.
  • Associated term: "abs" (as in separate) for memory aid.
• Adduction of the Vocal Folds:
  • Vocal folds come together at the midline.
  • Important for sound production and preventing air escape.

Vocal Abuse and Misuse

Examples of Vocal Abuse

• Common scenario: yelling at events (e.g., concerts, sports).
• Extended periods of vocal strain can lead to vocal nodules and damage.
• Other examples of potential vocal abuse include:
  • Being a performer or singer.
  • Public speaking and teaching.
  • Example: An instructor may develop vocal issues after long sessions (e.g., 6-hour workshops) without proper rest.

Importance of Vocal Rest

• Vocal rest is recommended post extensive use of vocal cords.
• Not allowing adequate recuperation can exacerbate vocal issues.

Vocal Quality Descriptions

• Students are prompted to describe voice attributes.
• Words like harsh and breathiness emerge as descriptive terms.
• Excessive strain can result in degraded vocal quality.

Anatomy Relevant to Voice Production

Structures Involved

• Epiglottis:
  • Cartilage structure that sits above the vocal folds.
  • Protects the airway during swallowing.

Vocal Cord Paralysis Case Study

Case of Betty Lou

• Betty Lou experiences breathiness and raspiness due to vocal cord paralysis following meningitis.
• A surgical procedure was performed to implant a device that assists in vocal cord function.
  • Resulted in observable improvement in vocal quality post-surgery.
• The surgical intervention's effectiveness is highlighted through before and after voice samples.

Swallowing Mechanics

Phases of Swallowing

Oral Preparation Phase

• The process begins with the preparation of food in the mouth.
• The palate lowers to assist in managing food particles and saliva, incorporating saliva into a bolus.

Pharyngeal Phase

• This critical phase ensures that the bolus enters the esophagus.
• Physical structures, including the epiglottis, work to protect airways during swallowing.

Structures Involved in Swallowing

• Key parts include:
  • Tongue
  • Teeth
  • Epiglottis
  • Esophagus
• The teeth grind food while salivary glands moisten it.
• The tongue pushes the bolus to the throat and directs it into the esophagus, leading to the stomach.