the SHAPE of DENTISTRY is CHANGING “Overall, hoarseness is the most common chief complaint,” Dr. Kasznica says. Despite being common, he adds that the evaluation can still be quite interesting and even challenging. “Upper respiratory infections, laryngitis, acid reflux, polyps, nodules and even laryngeal cancer can be causes.” And like the voice itself, the evaluation of a voice patient is both medical and functional. “Our first priority is to examine the larynx to rule out any serious underlying conditions,” says Dr. Kasznica. An inflamed larynx can be treated with medications, while masses or growths could indicate a need for surgery. Once underlying medical conditions are addressed, the optimized voice relies heavily on the efforts of the patient, physician and voice specialist, usually a speech language pathologist. “It’s important to remember that the larynx is a very complicated and sensitive organ,” he says. “Many different factors contribute to its function so it’s important to pay attention to potential injury or stressors.” But the good news is that most sources of voice complaints are not serious and can be treated quite easily. And if you really want to practice what the medical professionals preach, Dr. Kasznica says that drinking lots of water, avoiding tobacco products and limiting alcohol consumption and carbonated beverages are all good starting points to a healthy voice. SFW
june/jul y 2012 • SIOUX FALLS WO M A N
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