Evaluation of voice handicap and emotional status among dysphonic and non-dysphonic individuals: A cross-sectional survey

Background: Dysphonia impairs verbal communication of the sufferer, which can lead to social isolation, depression, and reduced quality of life. Evaluation of voice handicap and emotional impact of dysphonia are not routinely consider in our laryngology and voice clinics, despite the fact that about 50% to 60% of patients with dysphonia have social and psychological problems. Aims: The aim of this study is to investigate the voice handicap and emotional status among dysphonic and non-dysphonic individuals in our environment. Materials and Methods: It was a cross-sectional study that included dysphonic patients and non-dysphonic individuals matched for age and gender. A detailed clinical history was obtained, and the Voice Handicap Index (VHI) questionnaire was used to assess the voice handicap and emotional status of the participants. The mean VHI score of dysphonic and non-dysphonic participants was compared. Results: Ninety dysphonic patients and equal number of non-dysphonic controls completed the study. The mean VHI score dysphonic patients was higher (46.8 ± 17.7) than that of the controls (5.2 ± 3.9), and there was a statistical significant difference between the two groups (P = 0.000). Most of the dysphonic patients 69(77.8%) had poor emotional status, while most of the controls had good emotional status 83(92.3%). Conclusion: This study found high Voice Handicap Index and poor emotional status among dysphonic patients compared to controls. Therefore, patients with dysphonia should be reviewed by a psychologist in order to address the emotional aspect of their problem.