Voice and speech disorders

A voice disorder in childhood is diagnosed when there is prolonged hoarseness without an underlying infection. As a rule, voice disorders in children manifest as excessive tension and pressure when speaking or vocal cord nodules. Speech disorders, on the other hand, are characterised by motor disorders of the speech organs. The child’s pronunciation may involve incorrectly formed sounds, a lack of articulation accuracy or disruptions in the flow of speech.

Voice disorders and speech disorders should be examined by an ENT specialist or a phoniatrist. This involves a laryngoscopy, possibly with video recording. During this procedure, the vibrations of the vocal folds can be analysed and advice provided. It may also be advisable to have the child’s hearing tested. Speech and language therapy is often prescribed to treat voice and speech disorders.