Systemic Disorders Affecting Voice

Abstract

The manifestations of systemic diseases affecting voice can range from mild dysphonia to airway obstruction. There is evidence that systemic or whole body influences may also affect larynx &voice production . In the person whose voice does not improve despite general intensive measure with vocal hygiene, hydration and adequate speech and singing instruction systemic disorder should be investigated. Treatment of the systemic condition usually improve the voice disorder but sometimes surgical interference is needed. Any disorders of the endocrine system either by hypo or hyperfunction may affect the voice this include: Thyroid gland disorders, anterior pituitary disorder, gonadal disorders and diabetes mellitus. The neurological disorders of the larynx are classified according to site of affection to upper motor neuron lesion and lower motor neuron lesion. Many patients with disorders of the larynx and voice suffer from infectious respiratory conditions, Rhinitis, sinusitis, laryngitis and pharyngitis are known to inflame the mucosa and affect voice.