Dysphonia in Hospitalized Patients.

Abstract

Dysphonia, or impaired voice quality, is common in hospitalized patients and can impair communication, signal underlying disease, and worsen outcomes. Ultimately, this negatively impacts quality of life, increases resource utilization, and often coexists with dysphagia. Causes include surgical injury, intubation, infection, neurologic disease, and malignancy. Diagnosis relies on history and physical examination, often inclusive of laryngoscopy performed by otolaryngologists. Treatment is multidisciplinary, involving speech-language therapy, medical services, and surgery. Early ear, nose, and throat and speech language pathology involvement improves outcomes and may reduce complications like aspiration. Structured care pathways are critical for effective, cost-efficient dysphonia management in hospitalized settings.