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Muscle tension dysphonia is a common problem that can cause symptoms ranging from an extremely breathy voice to one that is tight/strangled and high pitched. A person can have mild to severe problems with this disorder that is caused by excessive or inappropriate muscle use. Several muscles surround the voice box and assist with vocal fold movement. A person can learn to use these muscles in an incorrect way, thereby causing a significant voice disturbance. To regain normal muscle functions, patients work directly with a speech pathologist. Treatment is focused on proper breathing, relaxation, muscle control, and voice placement.
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