Skip to main content
Voice Issues at Dr. Shawl's practice

Our services

Voice Issues Specialist

As a singer, actor, teacher, or anyone with a high vocal demand, being able to project your voice is an important aspect of your livelihood. However, acid reflux, allergies, and post-nasal drip can cause voice issues that prevent you from giving your best performance. At his Union Square office in Manhattan, experienced otolaryngologist, Matthew W. Shawl, MD, regularly assists men and women experiencing voice issues. Call or use the online booking tool to request an appointment at the New York City office today.

Voice Issues Q & A

What causes voice issues to develop?

At the back of your throat, near the base of your tongue, is your voice box or larynx. Your larynx consists of cartilage, muscles, and mucous membranes; when air moves through your larynx, your vocal cords vibrate, creating sound.

When your larynx is healthy, you can sing, speak, and yell without any problems. However, if your vocal cords become inflamed, paralyzed, or develop growths, one or more voice issues may arise.

What are some of the most common voice issues?

Dr. Shawl treats an array of voice issues, including:

Laryngitis

Laryngitis is the medical term for the inflammation of your larynx. The two most common causes of laryngitis are viral infections, similar to those that cause the flu, and vocal strain from yelling or singing loudly.

Spasmodic dysphonia

Spasmodic dysphonia is a neurological disorder that causes your vocal cords to experience involuntary spasms. These spasms cause your voice to break, crack, or have a strained quality.

Cancerous and non-cancerous lesions

Both cancerous and benign polyps, cysts, and nodules can develop on your vocal cords. As these growths increase in size, they can cause inflammation, paralysis, and difficulty projecting.

Vocal cord paralysis

Vocal cord paralysis occurs as a result of damage to nerves in your larynx. Some of the most common causes of vocal paralysis include strokes, neck and chest injuries, or accidents during vocal cord surgery.

Are there any factors that increase my risk of voice issues?

Anyone can develop a voice issue, but there are certain factors that can increase your risk, including:

  • Smoking
  • Allergies
  • Aging
  • Yelling
  • Dehydration

Other factors linked to voice issues include improperly clearing your throat, high-stress levels, and scarring from surgery or trauma.

How are voice issues diagnosed?

In most cases, Dr. Shawl diagnoses voice issues following a thorough physical exam, review of your medical history, and discussion of your symptoms. During your appointment, Dr. Shawl listens to your voice and performs a series of vocal tests.

If these measures don’t provide adequate information, Dr. Shawl may recommend a diagnostic imaging procedure like a laryngoscopy, an electrical test like laryngeal electromyography, or blood testing.

How are voice issues treated?

The treatment for your voice issue depends on the underlying cause, but whenever possible, Dr. Shawl recommends conservative methods of care. For example, if you’re suffering from vocal cord inflammation, Dr. Shawl may prescribe a vocal cord reset or a period of rest and relaxation.

If allergies or acid reflux disease cause your voice issues, Dr. Shawl can recommend lifestyle changes like a less-acidic diet or prescription medications.

More serious voice issues like vocal cord paralysis may benefit from voice therapy. Dr. Shawl can refer you to a specialist who can help strengthen your vocal cords and improve breathing during speech. If necessary, Dr. Shawl can also prescribe prescription steroids, but only as a last resort.

Don’t let issues like hoarseness and post-nasal drip threaten your career. Call or use the online booking tool to request an appointment with Matthew W. Shawl, MD, to find a solution for your voice issue today.

Questions about voice issues?

Call the Union Square office in Manhattan. 853 Broadway, Suite 903, New York, NY 10003.

Call 212-787-6900

What we offer

Other services

Acid Reflux — treatment at Dr. Shawl's office

Acid Reflux

It’s not unusual to experience indigestion every once in a while, especially after overeating. But if you have heartburn more than twice a week, you may have a more chronic type of acid reflux. In addition to affecting your esophagus, acid reflux can also affect your throat and voice box. Board-certified otolaryngologist Matthew W. Shawl, MD, is an ENT specialist in New York City who can determine if your acid reflux is damaging your larynx or pharynx and provide the most appropriate treatment. For a consultation, call the Union Square office in Manhattan or request an appointment online.

Deviated Septum — treatment at Dr. Shawl's office

Deviated Septum

An estimated 80% of people have some degree of misalignment of their nasal septum, which is the bone and cartilage that separates your nasal passage. In severe cases, a deviated nasal septum can affect breathing. If you have a deviated septum that’s causing difficulties breathing through your nose, board-certified otolaryngologist and expert surgeon Matthew W. Shawl, MD, in New York City, can evaluate your nose and perform any necessary procedures to improve your alignment. To schedule a consultation, contact the Union Square office in Manhattan by phone or online today.

Rhinoplasty — treatment at Dr. Shawl's office

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is one of the most common surgical cosmetic procedures in the United States. Whether you’re seeking rhinoplasty to improve appearance or breathing, you want a skilled surgeon who can provide you with the best results. Experienced facial plastic surgeon, Matthew W. Shawl, MD, in New York City, has performed numerous rhinoplasty procedures throughout his career and can get the results you desire. To schedule a consultation, contact the Union Square office in Manhattan by phone or online today.

Sleep Apnea — treatment at Dr. Shawl's office

Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a common, yet scary condition, that affects your breathing while you sleep. While the causes of sleep apnea are multifactorial, your nightly breathing issues may be related to a condition that affects your ears, nose, or throat. Board-certified otolaryngologist Matthew W. Shawl, MD, in New York City specializes in the management of sleep apnea and can determine if your breathing issues are due to an underlying ear, nose, or throat issue. To schedule an appointment, call the Union Square office in Manhattan or book an appointment online today.