​Frequently Asked Questions

Technically, yes. 'Speech' therapy really refers to interventions targeting the speech mechanism (lips, teeth, tongue, palate, etc) that creates consonant and vowel sounds. 'Voice' therapy targets the underlying sound source that creates vocalizations (the larynx or "voice box"). Often, any intervention done by a Speech-Language Pathologist is referred to as speech therapy, regardless of the actual target or intervention (speech, voice, language, swallowing, chronic cough, etc).  

Muscle Tension Dysphonia: Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) is a type of voice disorder characterized by excessive tension in the muscles surrounding the voice box (larynx) during speech. This tension can lead to a strained or effortful voice production, hoarseness, vocal fatigue, and discomfort or pain when speaking.

Vocal cord nodules or polyps: These are growths on the vocal cords caused by vocal strain or misuse. They can cause hoarseness and a breathy or rough voice.​

Vocal fold paresis or paralysis: This occurs when one or both of the vocal cords are unable to move properly due to nerve damage, resulting in difficulty speaking or breathing.

The exact cause of cough hypersensitivity syndrome is not fully understood, but it is believed to involve dysfunction in the sensory nerves that regulate the cough reflex. This dysfunction may result from a variety of factors, including:

1. Neurogenic inflammation: Abnormal activation or sensitization of sensory nerves in the airways, leading to exaggerated cough responses to non-specific stimuli.

2.  Central sensitization: Changes in the central nervous system that amplify the perception of cough stimuli, leading to a heightened cough reflex.

3. Airway hypersensitivity: Increased sensitivity of the airway mucosa to various irritants or stimuli, triggering coughing even in the absence of respiratory pathology.

4. Psychological factors: Emotional stress, anxiety, or psychological conditions may contribute to the development or exacerbation of cough hypersensitivity syndrome.

Speech-Language Pathology services, like other allied health services (physiotherapy, occupation therapy, registered massage therapy, psychology, etc) are not covered by OHIP. Most extended health plans do cover these services up to a certain amount, or you may have a health spending account. Speak to your insurance company if you are unsure about your coverage. You will need to pay for the service at the time of each session, and will be provided with a receipt that can be submitted to your insurance company for reimbursement. 

Some hospitals offer free outpatient services, but may have long waiting lists.

The number of voice therapy sessions needed can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of the voice disorder, the underlying cause, individual progress, and the effectiveness of the therapy techniques used. In general, a typical course of voice therapy for muscle tension dysphonia or other voice disorders might range from a few sessions to several months of regular therapy.

Management of cough hypersensitivity syndrome typically involves a multidisciplinary approach that addresses both the underlying sensory dysfunction and any contributing factors. Treatment options may include:

1. Medications: Certain medications, such as neuromodulators or antitussives, may help reduce cough sensitivity or suppress coughing.

2. Speech therapy: Techniques aimed at retraining the cough reflex and modifying cough behaviors can be beneficial for some individuals with cough hypersensitivity syndrome.

3. Behavioral therapy: Cognitive-behavioral techniques, relaxation exercises, and stress management strategies may help reduce cough frequency and severity.

4. Environmental modifications: Avoiding known triggers or irritants, maintaining optimal indoor air quality, and practicing good vocal hygiene can help minimize cough symptoms.

5. Education and support: Providing education about cough hypersensitivity syndrome and offering support resources can empower individuals to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life.

It's important for individuals experiencing chronic cough to undergo a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment approach.

A voice disorder refers to any condition that affects the quality, pitch, or volume of a person's voice. These disorders can be caused by various factors, including medical conditions, vocal misuse, neurological disorders, or psychoemotional factors. Dysphonia is a broad term used to describe difficulty in producing clear voice, often resulting in hoarseness, raspiness, or difficulty controlling pitch or volume.

Chronic cough, also referred to as cough hypersensitivity syndrome or sensory neuropathic cough, is a condition characterized by a heightened sensitivity of the cough reflex. Individuals with this syndrome experience frequent, persistent coughing that is often triggered by non-tussive stimuli, such as talking, laughing, or changes in temperature or air quality. Unlike acute cough, which serves as a protective mechanism to clear the airways of irritants or pathogens, chronic cough hypersensitivity syndrome is not associated with an underlying respiratory condition like asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).