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Dapartemen Of Otolaryngologi
Muscle Tension Dysphonia
Causes
Primary MTD often occurs following an upper respiratory illness, such
the cold or flu. In the case of an upper respiratory tract infection, the
muscular imbalance is not thought to be connected to stress and
anxiety. Significant stressful life events, such as the loss of a loved
one, can cause muscle tension dysphonia as well.
Symptoms
Muscle tension dysphonia is a highly variable condition. The most
common symptom of primary MTD is a change in voice quality,
ranging from mild to severe and it is often associated with pain or
discomfort while speaking. The voice can be affected during speaking,
singing or both. Often, hoarseness will be associated with an
increased effort to talk and subsequent fatigue or tiring of the voice
with continued use.
Diagnosis
How is the diagnosis of MTD made?
1. Patient History: A history of how the voice problem started and an
evaluation of voice and speaking behaviors are important steps in the
diagnosis of primary MTD.
2. Speech-Language Pathology Evaluation
Treatment
Voice Therapy
Voice therapy is the gold standard treatment for primary MTD. There
are no other treatments that can restore the muscle balance in the
vocal mechanism. Voice therapy helps the patient improve vocal
symptoms through exercises and techniques geared at improving the
way the body (muscles, lungs etc.) work together to create voice.
Behavioral Counseling
In cases of primary MTD associated with stress or anxiety, it can be
very helpful for the patient to work with a counselor to reduce stress in
addition to completing voice therapy.