Äänirihmat

Äänirihmat, also known as vocal folds or vocal cords, are a pair of muscular folds located within the larynx (voice box) of mammals. These structures play a crucial role in sound production, enabling speech, singing, and other vocalizations. The primary function of the äänirihmat is to vibrate when air is expelled from the lungs, creating sound waves.

The äänirihmat are composed of several layers, including a mucous membrane, a layer of connective tissue, and a muscle. The shape, tension, and thickness of these folds can be altered by the action of intrinsic laryngeal muscles. By adjusting these parameters, the larynx can produce a wide range of pitches and tones. The airflow from the lungs passes between the äänirihmat, causing them to open and close rapidly, thus generating the basic sound that is then modified by the vocal tract.

Disorders affecting the äänirihmat can lead to voice problems such as hoarseness, breathiness, or complete voice loss. These issues can arise from various causes including inflammation, overuse, trauma, or neurological conditions. Medical professionals specializing in voice disorders, such as otolaryngologists and speech-language pathologists, diagnose and treat these conditions. The health and proper functioning of the äänirihmat are essential for effective communication.