A voice disorder, also known as dysphonia, results in a disruption to the sound of the voice and limited vocal performance. This becomes noticeable through frequent hoarseness or, in extreme cases, complete vocal failure (aphonia). Patients often complain of pain or a feeling of tightness when speaking, difficulty clearing their throat or a feeling of dryness. There is also tension in the face, neck and shoulder area and incorrect breathing when speaking.

Depending on the cause, a distinction is made between various voice disorders:

Functional dysphonia

Vocal problems are caused by inappropriate use of the voice or overexertion.

Organic dysphonia

An organic disorder leads to impairment of the vocal apparatus and thus the use of the voice, e.g. due to paralysis of the laryngeal nerve, tumors in the larynx or vocal fold nodules caused by incorrect use of the voice.

Psychogenic dysphonia

Severe hoarseness or even aphonia caused by psychological overload. Functional dysphonia often also has a psychological component.

Childhood dysphonia

Voice disorder in children aged around 5-10 years, characterized by a hoarse, often very loud voice, combined with shallow breathing. Vocal fold nodules may develop.