Reclining Voice Presbyphony

What is an Aging Voice (Presbyphonia)?

Like other organs and tissues in our body, the larynx and vocal cords also age. Aging voice (presbyphonia) occurs as a result of two main changes in the structure and function of the vocal cords due to aging. First, the muscles that make up the vocal cords, like other muscles in the body, lose mass. This is called physiological atrophy. Secondly, the tissues that provide elasticity during vocal cord vibrations lose their quality, become thinner and stiffer, thus losing their flexibility. Due to atrophy and loss of elasticity, the function of the vocal cords and the quality of their closure are negatively affected. The resulting changes are perceived by our ears as an aged voice.

What are the Symptoms of Presbyphonia?

There is no standard for voice changes associated with aging. In some individuals, these changes may occur at a very early age, while in others they may develop later. These voice changes can be roughly defined as the voice having a more high-pitched and breathy, rough quality than before. The resonance characteristics of the voice are reduced and limitations in projection occur. Individuals report that their voice, which was previously rich, clear and able to drown out other sounds (such as in a crowded environment, in traffic noise or with music playing in the background), has changed.

How to Treat Voice Changes Due to Aging? How to Achieve a More Satisfying Voice?

It is very important to determine that voice changes due to aging are not due to any other cause. For this purpose, distal chip flexible endoscopy or videolaryngostroboscopy should be performed. After the correct diagnosis is made, voice problems can be completely solved with voice therapy and surgical interventions for the vocal cords (such as injection laryngoplasty, phonemic microsurgery).