Exploring Muscle Tension Dysphonia: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options
Muscle Tension Dysphonia (MTD) has become a common diagnosis in voice, used when a doctor finds no signs of injury in a patient who has voice symptoms. This 'diagnosis' has led to a lot of confusion and also some stress and trauma as patients struggle to find treatment for their newly diagnosed condition.
What is MTD or muscle tension dysphonia?
Dysphonia simply means there is a problem with the voice. It is a symptom, like "indigestion." The work of a laryngologist is to determine the cause and for MTD, it is presumed that muscular tension is the cause of the voice symptom.
MTD occurs when there is excessive vocal force and the use of compensatory muscles. This often leads to hoarseness and vocal fatigue. Professional voice users have high vocal demands, putting them at greater risk for MTD. This is similar to any athlete who uses their body extensively; symptoms will show up in the area they are using (i.e., a runner with IT band pain).
Configuration of laryngeal muscles during soft volume phonation.
More muscular compression of laryngeal muscles during loud (projected) voice use.
Common Causes of MTD
1. Voice overuse: Yelling, strained speaking, or overuse of the vocal cords can lead to muscle tension and discomfort.
2. Emotional Stress: Our emotional state is closely tied to our vocal health. Stress, anxiety, and emotional turmoil can manifest as tension in the laryngeal muscles, impacting our voice.
3. Lifestyle Habits: Poor vocal habits, such as speaking too loudly, in the incorrect pitch, or using the voice inefficiently can contribute to MTD.
4. Underlying Health Issues: Conditions like acid reflux, allergies, or respiratory infections may cause irritation and contribute to muscle tension.
Symptoms of MTD
1. Hoarseness: Your voice may lose its clarity, becoming hoarse and raspy.
2. Vocal Fatigue: Even small conversations may leave you feeling vocally exhausted.
3. Discomfort and Pain: Speaking or singing might cause discomfort or even pain in your throat or neck.
4. Strained Voice: You may feel like you're pushing too hard to produce sound.
5. Voice Changes: Your pitch may fluctuate, and you might struggle to control it.
This quiz is designed to predict the likelihood that you have some degree of muscle tension dysphonia.
A Holistic Approach to Diagnosis and Healing
1. Comprehensive Assessment: diagnosis requires a thorough evaluation, including a voice assessment, stroboscopy, and an in-depth discussion about your medical history and vocal habits.
This is crucial because MTD is often misdiagnosed when small injuries or medical issues are missed. This misdiagnosis leads to pointless therapies and treatments. Symptoms persist and the patient is frustrated. Accurate diagnosis with a laryngologist and stroboscopy are key to effective treatment.
2. Voice Therapy: This helps retrain vocal habits. Therapy for MTD is highly effective at teaching you about your voice and how it can feel better.
3. Mind-Body Connection: Holistic healing acknowledges the link between emotional stress and physical tension. Learning relaxation techniques can significantly help in reducing vocal tension.
As with anything, the key to effective treatment is ensuring you have an accurate diagnosis and are working with a skilled treatment team.
Interested in working with the best professionals in LA for voice care and rehabilitation?
Meet Dr. Gupta, the top voice doctor in LA, and Tressa Cox, the leading voice therapist specializing in voice rehabilitation.
Learn more about their expertise and services at the Center for Vocal Health.