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Use the term “vocal cords” and most people think of the structure that lets us talk, sing and yell. But these folds of throat tissue do much more. Among their most important functions is sealing off the trachea, or windpipe, when we eat or drink, to keep foods and liquids from getting into our lungs. Romina Huerta, a speech-language pathologist at PNI, knows all about the vocal cords. Long before her medical career began, she learned the violin and became a singer. These days, she’s a member of the Grammy-nominated band Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles. That experience helps her understand what ails other professional singers who come to her for help with overworked vocal cords. She’s been there and done that. She also treats people who have swallowing disorders, which are often caused by dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Strokes and brain injuries also bring patients into PNI, where Romina works with our otolaryngologists—surgeons and doctors who treat the ear, nose and throat. Listen to this episode to learn how Romina helps singers and others care for their vocal cords.

Discover Pacific Neuroscience Institute's new Speech-Language Pathology Program, offering personalized and evidence-based care for speech, language, swallowing, and cognitive communication impairments. Meet our expert team and experience compassionate care that enhances communication, swallow function, and overall well-being.

Pacific Neuroscience Institute teams in Neurology and Neurosurgery contribute to High Performing Hospitals in US News & World Report rankings.

Did you know that some swallowing problems can be caused by a medical condition? PNI expert Dr. Omid Mehdizadeh treats both voice and swallowing dysfunction. When swallowing becomes a problem Difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) can become a chronic issue that affects anyone, but is often experienced...

Hoarseness is a general term referring to changes in the voice. Synonyms or other words commonly used include raspy, rough, deep, weak, breathy, or strained. Occasionally, hoarseness can be uncomfortable or associated with other symptoms such as difficulty swallowing or sensation of a lump in...