Phoniatrics Outpatient Clinic, Pasila

Phoniatrics is concerned with dysfunctions of voice, speech, and language. We also treat swallowing disorders and various symptoms of the larynx. 

Voice dysfunctions

A phoniatric specialist examines the causes of voice dysfunctions. After an interview and some vocal exercises, video of your larynx will be taken through your nose or mouth. Neurological examinations or acoustic tests performed by a phonetician in a sound laboratory may be indicated.

Once a diagnosis is reached, suitable treatment and rehabilitation will be sought. Often, a speech therapist will be needed. Many people whose work involves using their voice can benefit from a speech amplifier.

Speech and language dysfunctions

Speech and language dysfunctions usually occur in children: a child's speech and language may not develop at the same pace as their other skills. For some children, language difficulties lead to learning difficulties later in life. The Phoniatrics Outpatient Clinic also treats fluency disorders such as stuttering.

The most severe symptoms in this field are treated at HUS; your physician will refer you to us if this is the case. If your symptoms are mild, please contact your primary health care service provider. 

Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia)

The Phoniatrics Outpatient Clinic performs swallowing examinations to study whether the patient has difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) due to the mouth or throat. If it is suspected that the cause of dysphagia is esophageal, then the patient will be examined at the Gastroenterology Outpatient Clinic.

The swallowing examination is performed with the patient in a sitting position. A thin, flexible probe is lubricated with gel and carefully inserted through the nostril. The nostril can be anesthetized if necessary. The purpose of the examination is to find out how the patient swallows liquids and solid foods. Generally, there is a speech therapist involved in the examination to provide advice about how to swallow.

There is no need to abstain from food or drink before the examination, and any medications prescribed can be taken normally. The patient may have a numb feeling in the throat after the examination, and it may be 30 to 60 minutes before normal eating and drinking is possible. The examination does not incapacitate the patient, who can be immediately discharged.