Röstlöshet

Röstlöshet, also known as aphonia, is the complete loss of voice. It is a symptom rather than a disease and can result from a variety of causes, both physical and psychological. Physical causes often involve the vocal cords, which are responsible for producing sound. Inflammation, such as laryngitis, can make the vocal cords swell and vibrate improperly, leading to hoarseness or complete loss of voice. Vocal cord nodules or polyps, which are growths on the vocal cords, can also interfere with their function. Trauma to the larynx or vocal cords, such as from surgery or injury, can also cause röstlöshet. Neurological conditions affecting the nerves that control the vocal cords can also lead to voice loss.

Psychological causes, sometimes referred to as functional aphonia, can occur without any physical abnormality of the vocal cords. This may be a response to emotional trauma, stress, or anxiety, where the voice mechanism is involuntarily shut down. In such cases, the person may be able to cough or clear their throat normally, indicating the vocal cords are physically capable of producing sound.

Diagnosis of röstlöshet typically involves a medical history, physical examination, and often a laryngoscopy, where a doctor uses a small mirror or a camera to visualize the vocal cords. Treatment depends entirely on the underlying cause. For inflammatory causes, rest and hydration are often recommended. For growths or structural issues, surgery may be necessary. Functional aphonia may benefit from voice therapy, counseling, or psychotherapy. While röstlöshet can be distressing, identifying and addressing the root cause is key to recovery.