Definition
Aphonia is a symptom characterized by the total loss of the voice. When, on the other hand, phonation is only partially compromised, we speak more correctly of Dysphonia.
This alteration - temporary or permanent - can be due to a lesion of the larynx, consequent to inflammatory processes of various nature (see laryngitis), tumors or paralysis of the motor nerves.
If the disorder is associated with cough, fever and dyspnea, it could be caused by upper respiratory tract infections, such as acute laryngitis, colds, and pharyngitis.
The total inability to produce sounds with the voice can be linked to dysfunctions of the vocal cords secondary to traumas, neoplasms, congenital malformations or medical-surgical complications.
Aphonia can also characterize bilateral paralysis of phonatory muscles, laryngeal diphtheria or accidental inhalation of foreign bodies.
The complete absence of the voice can also result from neurological alterations (Parkinson's disease) and thyroid diseases (voluminous goiter). Smokers and alcohol abuse are also enemies of healthy speech.
Sometimes the aphonia is functional and depends on mental disorders and states of severe physical exhaustion.
Possible Causes * of Afonia
- Alcoholism
- Diphtheria
- Pharyngitis
- Goiter
- Influence
- Laryngitis
- Parkinson's disease
- Cold
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- Parainfluenza syndromes
- Tonsillitis
- Thyroid tumor
- Laryngeal tumors
