Pathologies of the larynx and neck
Conditions of the larynx
The larynx is the last tract of the upper airway that allows air to pass through, as well as phonation, and protects the trachea when swallowing via the epiglottis.
MYOPATHIES OF THE VOCAL CORDS
Chronic inflammation of the mucosa and muscles (especially the vocal cords).
ACUTE LARYNGITIS
Caused by viruses, are a complication of other diseases affecting the upper airways (rhinitis, adenoiditis, tonsillitis, flu).
CHRONIC LARYNGITIS
A typical chronic laryngitis is Reinke's edema, or chronic smoking laryngitis. It causes a thickening of the vocal cords with a consequent gradual modification of the timbre of the voice which becomes deeper and can even obstruct the respiratory space at the glottis.
Diseases associated with the neck
Neck pain is a very common problem. By working more at the desk and living at a frenetic pace, we load stress and tension in the back and neck. Pain is often caused by spinal problems and can arise from muscle stiffness in the neck, and also in the back. The upper vertebrae of the neck are used for movement and the lower and dorsal vertebrae create a support structure, so if the neck-back system is affected then the muscles in that area stiffen and cause pain.
Serious (uncommon) disorders:
- spondylosis;
- spinal stenosis;
- slipped disc;
- severe degeneration.
Non-serious disorders (very common):
- stress;
- postural problems (frequent during sleep);
- minor injuries and falls (road accidents);
- secondary pain (back problems);
- muscle tension from overuse.
