Are you having problems with your voice? Let's talk about the Videostroboscopy test!

Do you sometimes notice small changes in your voice? Maybe your voice becomes a little hoarse, or you feel tired when you speak. So today we are going to talk about a special test that can help find the cause of these voice problems. That is a test called Videostroboscopy. Don't worry, although the name is a bit long, it is not as complicated as you think.

What is Videostroboscopy?

Simply put, this is a special test used to see how your vocal cords are working. Think of it like these little strings inside your throat. When we speak or sing, these vibrate to make sounds. So, in this test, the doctor puts a small camera into your throat (larynx) and looks at these vocal cords while you speak or make a sound. This can tell you exactly whether your vocal cords are working properly or if there is a problem.

When do we need to do this videostroboscopy?

There are several situations in which your doctor may suggest this test. Let's take a look at what they are:

• Hoarseness: If your voice has consistently become hoarse, meaning it sounds slurred or heavy. For example, if you have been speaking for days as if you have a sore throat, this test may be necessary.
• Benign vocal cord lesions or polyps: Sometimes small growths called polyps can develop on the vocal cords. These are not cancer, but they can affect your voice.
• Difficulty swallowing (Dysphagia) or other swallowing disorders: If you experience any difficulty swallowing food or drink, this can help determine if the cause is a vocal cord problem.
• Vocal cord paralysis: Sometimes one or both vocal cords may not function properly. This condition can affect both voice and breathing.
• Breathing difficulties: Sometimes breathing can be difficult due to a problem with the vocal cords. This test is also important in such cases.

Imagine, your friend, Nimali. She is a teacher at a school. Her voice has been very hoarse for about a month. She gets tired quickly when teaching, and her voice doesn't come out properly. When she met a doctor, the doctor said to try this `(Videostroboscopy)`.

Who is doing this test?

There are several specialist doctors and therapists who can perform this test. The decision about who will perform it will depend on your needs.

• Laryngologist: This is an ear, nose, and throat doctor who specializes in diseases related to the throat, larynx (voice box), and vocal cords. Simply put, a doctor who specializes in voice problems.
• Otolaryngologist (ENT specialist): As we all know, an ear, nose, and throat specialist. They also perform this test.
• Speech-language pathologist: A therapist trained in speech and language disorders. They are also sometimes involved in this testing, especially with voice training.
• Nurse practitioner: A nurse who works with an ear, nose, and throat specialist and has received special training to perform these types of tests.

How does this videostroboscopy test work?

This works in a very interesting way. When we talk, sing, or shout, our vocal cords vibrate very quickly. In fact, the vibration is so fast that we can barely see it with our eyes.

So, in this `(Videostroboscopy)` test, a small camera is used to `record` these vibrations as a `video`. Then the doctor can watch this `video` slowly (slow motion). When watching this slowly, it is possible to clearly see whether the vocal cords are vibrating normally, healthily, or in some abnormal way. Also, if there is something like a tumor or lump in the vocal cords, it can be found out how it affects the vibration. This camera works like a detective!

How should we prepare before this test?

Here's the best part! There's no need to prepare for this test. Because it doesn't put you under general anesthesia (meaning you're not put to sleep). Typically, you'll see your doctor and make an appointment, and then you can have the test done in the doctor's office.

If you're doing this test on a young child, they might be a little scared, right? At that time, you can bring something they like, like a stuffed animal. That will give them some comfort.

What happens during the test?

This is an outpatient test. This means you can go home after it's done. When you come in for the test, here's what happens:

• First, the doctor will put a topical numbing medicine inside your nose. This may be a spray. After a while, this numbing sensation will spread to your throat. Then your throat will feel numb too. Don't worry, this is done so that you don't feel any discomfort or pain.
• Next, a small microphone is worn around your neck to record your voice.
• Then, the doctor will pass a thin, flexible tube called an endoscope through your nose and down your throat. Because it's numbed with a numbing medicine, you won't even feel the tube going in, and there won't be any pain.
• Now the doctor will tell you to make sounds like "Aaah" or "Eeee" or something. As you do that, the camera will record your vocal cords. This process will take about 15 to 20 minutes.
• After recording different ranges of sounds, the doctor will carefully remove the tube from your nose and throat.

That's it! Easier than you think, right?

What can you expect after the test?

It may take an hour or two for the numbing medicine to wear off completely. During this time, you may feel a little numb in your nose and throat. Since your throat is numb, it may be difficult to eat, so avoid eating during this time. It is best to drink only water or clear liquids until your throat feels normal again.

Are there any risks in this?

This is the most important thing. If an experienced, licensed doctor performs this ``Videostroboscopy`` test, the chances of problems occurring are very low. The equipment used does not touch your larynx or vocal cords. Therefore, you are unlikely to feel much pain after the test, except for a slight discomfort.

How soon can we know the test results?

Sometimes, the doctor can discuss the results with you right after the test is done. That way, you will know what your condition is. But sometimes, further tests may be needed. If that's the case, your doctor will explain what to do next.

When do we need to see the doctor soon?

Some conditions that affect the voice, such as vocal cord paralysis, can be serious if left untreated. Therefore, it is important to seek medical advice immediately if you have any of the following symptoms:

• If symptoms such as loss of voice and difficulty swallowing are increasing.
• If you feel difficulty breathing or shortness of breath .
• If you hear a whistling sound when breathing.

If you see something like this, you should definitely see a doctor immediately.

So, what are the most important things we need to remember from this?

Okay, so we've talked a lot about this `(Videostroboscopy)` test. Here are a few things to remember in brief:

• This is a very effective test that helps find the cause of voice problems.
• Most people do not feel much pain or discomfort during the test.
• The risk of problems or complications is very low.
• You can return to your normal activities immediately after the test.
• Your doctor will discuss the results with you and, if necessary, develop a treatment plan.

So, if you too have any voice problems, don't be afraid to see a doctor and get advice. Perhaps this `(Videostroboscopy)` test will be a great help in finding the cause of your problem!

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