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Neurology (Expert Forum)
spasmodic dysphonia
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spasmodic dysphonia
by susan__0__0, Aug 05, 1998 12:00AM
Have had spasmodic dysphonia over 20 yrs. Now my daughter has shown signs of getting it. (voice catches on certain words) Is this hereditary? Also distant family members have had some muscle weakness disease , but their first sypmtons were drooping eyelids. Eventually they had to have feeding tubes etc. Could there be a connection? I've had the botulism shots 3 times. Didn't help, but plan on trying again.
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Some dystonia syndromes may in fact be hereditary, and spasmodic dysphonia is one (though it can also be sporadic, that is, with no other affected family members).
Dystonia is not the same as muscle weakness - in fact, dystonic muscles get big and bulky because they are overactive (Arnold Schwartzenegger got big because he used his muscles). There are syndromes of dystonia which involve forced closure of the eyelids (called blepharospasm). That must be distinguished from drooping which is due to weakness of the levator palpebrae muscles, called ptosis.
Botox(TM) is a good medication for many patients with dystonia, though in some people the pattern of muscle contraction is so complex or widespread that botulinum toxin injections are not practical. Medications such as clonazepam may be of some value: if it works, it usually works pretty well. It just doesn't work in everyone.
Dystonic syndromes are treated by a variety of specialists. The majority of patients with dystonia see neurologists (movement disorders specialists), patients with vocal cord dystonias usually see otolaryngologists (ENT). If you wish a second opinion, you are welcome to call 800 223-2273 and ask for neurology appointments at 4-5559. I hope this helps. As you know, the information posted here is for your medical education. Specific comments regarding diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis must come from your doctor after appropriate evaluation. CCF MD mdf.
