Dysphonia refers to having an abnormal voice, a condition commonly known as hoarseness.
Understanding Dysphonia
Dysphonia describes any vocal abnormality where the voice's quality, pitch, or volume is altered from its typical state. While often broadly categorized as hoarseness, dysphonia encompasses a wide spectrum of changes in how a person's voice sounds.
Characteristics of Dysphonia
An abnormal voice, characteristic of dysphonia, can present in various ways. Common descriptions used to define the quality of the voice include:
- Hoarse: A rough, harsh, or breathy sound, often accompanied by a feeling of a scratchy throat.
- Rough: A coarse or grating vocal quality.
- Raspy: A harsh, dry, and often low-pitched sound, similar to a whisper mixed with voice.
- Strained: The voice sounds effortful, as if the speaker is pushing or squeezing to produce sound.
- Weak: A voice that lacks power, volume, or resonance.
- Breathy: A voice that sounds airy, indicating an excessive escape of air during speech.
- Gravely: A very deep, coarse, and low-pitched vocal quality.
Onset and Causes
Changes in the voice due to dysphonia can manifest suddenly or develop gradually over a period of time. It is important to note that dysphonia can stem from a wide range of underlying causes, which can vary from minor, temporary issues to more significant health conditions.
