Sore Throat

Most of us have experienced the very common voice disorder, hoarseness. Although many people get their voices back quickly, if you’re hoarse for more than two weeks, you should be evaluated by a medical professional.

UPMC Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialists — or otolaryngologists — like Philip A. Pollice, MD, utilize sophisticated tools and techniques to evaluate the voice box, also known as the larynx. This allows our experts to “make an accurate diagnosis and develop treatment plans for the problem,” says Dr. Pollice who practices at Metropolitan ENT Associates—UPMC. There, doctors and speech therapists work in tandem to provide top-notch care.

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How are Voice Disorders Grouped?

There are three categories that hoarseness can be divided into:

  • An inflammatory disorder (includes acid reflux, a chemical irritant, or a viral infection)
  • A neurologic problem, such as an injury to one of the voice box nerves or Parkinson’s disease
  • A structural abnormality like a vocal nodule, cyst, or cancer

How Do You Manage Voice Disorders?

The specialists at Metropolitan ENT have expertise in all three of the following techniques and management styles for keeping voice disorders in check:

  • Medicine
  • Surgical procedures
  • Voice therapy (physical therapy aimed at your larynx)

According to Dr. Pollice, many voice disorders can be managed with voice therapy only. But, often, a combination of one, two, or all three of these forms of treatment can be used to improve vocal issues.

At Metropolitan ENT, patients are not only seen by a physician but also a speech-language pathologist. “We employ a multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing and treating patients with voice disorders,” explains Pollice.

Advanced Ear, Nose, and Throat Care—in Your Community

Whether you need expert care for a voice problem or an ear or nose condition, Metropolitan ENT Associates—UPMC can provide you with world-class ENT services.

Metropolitan ENT Associates have been serving the tri-state area for more than 50 years. This month, South Hills residents gain access to this high-quality care at a brand new comprehensive medical and outpatient surgery center on Clairton Boulevard. If you or someone you know is suffering from one of the following conditions, make an appointment today by calling 1-866-929-6368, or visit Metropolitan ENT:

  • Head and neck cancer
  • Oral cavity and oropharynx disease
  • Sino-nasal disease
  • Sleep apnea
  • Voice and laryngeal disorders

About Ear Nose and Throat

The experts in the UPMC Department of Otolaryngology treat a variety of ear, nose, and throat (ENT) conditions in both children and adults. Our team includes board-certified physicians and highly skilled speech-language pathologists and audiologists. We provide both surgical and nonsurgical treatment options. Our research and clinical trials help to advance care for our patients. Find an ENT expert near you.