Services at Kogarah

Speech pathology for voice, throat and swallowing problems

Hoarseness, voice strain, chronic cough, throat irritation and swallowing difficulties are often best treated by an ENT surgeon and a speech pathologist together. Trudy Lynch Speech Pathology works from our suite at Kogarah for exactly this reason.

Voice and larynx

Voice problems — hoarseness, a tired or strained voice, loss of range, vocal nodules, muscle tension dysphonia, vocal cord palsy, tremor and spasmodic dysphonia — are first examined by the surgeon with a camera (nasendoscopy or stroboscopy) to see the vocal cords. Most are then treated with voice therapy: targeted exercises and techniques that resolve or markedly improve the problem without surgery, and that protect the voice after surgery when it is needed.

Chronic cough and throat irritation

A persistent cough or throat clearing with a normal chest and larynx is common and frustrating. Vocal cord dysfunction and laryngeal hypersensitivity respond well to specific speech pathology techniques once other causes — reflux, post-nasal drip from sinus disease or allergy, asthma — have been assessed and treated.

Swallowing

Difficulty swallowing, food sticking or coughing when eating can follow head and neck treatment, neurological illness or ageing. Assessment with the surgeon and speech pathologist identifies the cause and the safest way to eat and drink, with exercises to improve swallowing where possible. Trudy also sees adults and children who stutter, and children with voice disorders or chronic cough; she does not provide general children’s speech and language therapy.

Common questions

Do I see the surgeon or the speech pathologist first?

Usually the ENT surgeon, who examines the larynx and makes the diagnosis; speech pathology then follows, often in the same suite. Your GP can also refer directly to Trudy Lynch Speech Pathology.

How many sessions does voice therapy take?

Many voice problems improve within four to eight sessions; chronic cough and swallowing programmes vary. Trudy will set out a plan at the first visit.

Is speech pathology covered by Medicare?

GP Chronic Disease Management plans and some health funds cover part of the cost; Trudy Lynch Speech Pathology bills independently — 02 8283 7438.

Does Trudy see children?

For voice disorders, chronic cough and stuttering, yes. Trudy does not provide general children’s speech pathology (speech and language development); for that, your GP or paediatrician can refer to a paediatric speech pathologist.

Can singers and teachers be helped?

Yes. Professional voice users are a particular focus, both for treating problems and for preventing them.