Presbylaryngis (thinning or aging of the vocal cords) causes the edges of the vocal cords (which normally close completely together) to no longer meet as they should. The result – commonly seen in older patients – is a thinned, diminished voice. 

Common symptoms of presbylaryngis include:

• A higher, thinned, reedy voice
• Voice being hard to hear
• Need to use more effort to speak

Diagnosing Presbylaryngis

Presbylaryngis can be confirmed when observation with stroboscopy shows a thinned vocal cord with diminished vibration.

Presbylaryngis Treatment

Patients with presbylaryngis may undergo voice therapy, with the objective of learning to speak with increased breath support to produce a stronger voice. Some patients may also benefit from a vocal cord injection which will thicken the vocal cords, resulting in improved closure and a louder voice.

Make an Appointment

Contact the Johns Hopkins Voice Center by calling 443-997-6467 (443-997-OHNS).