You will be assessed by a multi-disciplinary team comprising of a Speech Therapist and ENT doctor in the Voice Clinic. Treatment is individualised. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment may include voice therapy, medications and/or surgery.

• Voice Therapy: Voice therapy helps to identify the vocal patterns that are causing your problems, and teaches you better ways of using your voice.You will have to attend several sessions of therapy and be expected to practise the exercises and techniques taught.
• Medications: Medications may be given to treat underlying medical issues which contribute to the voice problem. For example, you may be given medication to treat laryngopharyngeal reflux or post-nasal drip. Those medical conditions causes you to cough constantly, making your vocal folds swollen.
• Surgery: Surgery is necessary in selected cases. For example, to do biopsy for diagnostic purposes, removal of growths or to correct vocal fold paralysis. Your ENT doctor will discuss the details with you at the appropriate time.

When Should I See an ENT Doctor?

Consult an Ear Nose Throat (ENT) doctor when your voice problem is associated with:

• Pain on speaking, eating, swallowing
• Coughing up blood
• Difficulty swallowing
• Neck swelling/ growth
• Difficulty breathing
• Loss of appetite/ weight
• Affects your daily communication and functioning
• Lasts more than two weeks

How is the Examination Done?

The procedure is done in the clinic and takes about five minutes to complete. It is generally well tolerated by the majority of patients.

• A topical anaesthetic spray will be applied to numb your throat.
• Your ENT doctor will pass a scope through your nose or mouth to examine your voice box.
• You will be asked to say some sounds while the doctor examines.