How does the voice work?

When you exhale, there is a flow of air along the vocal folds. The vocal folds begin to vibrate. The exhalation pressure and the tension of the vocal folds lead to different movements of the vocal folds. This results in differences in pitch. If these sounds are altered by movements of the tongue and mouth, different sounds are produced. The exhalation pressure also plays a major role in the volume. If the glottis is very narrow, high-frequency and loud noises and sounds can be produced. If the glottic slit is oval-shaped in the middle, a lot of air escapes from the windpipe when speaking and singing. If this phenomenon occurs in old age, it is referred to as oval occlusive insufficiency. If hoarseness persists for more than four weeks, an ENT specialist should be consulted.

What tests are available?

In practice, it is possible to look into the larynx using angled optics and fiber endoscopy. Pathological changes in the mucous membrane can be recognized in this way. If tissue samples need to be taken, the procedure should be carried out in the clinic. This procedure, which is performed under anesthesia, is called microlaryngoscopy.

What common illnesses are possible here?