What is wrong with RFK Jr.’s voice? The disorder behind Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s speech impediment
As he campaigns to become the next US president, Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s manner of speaking has come into focus. What is wrong with his voice?
Robert F. Kennedy has been campaigning as an independent candidate to become the next president of the United States. Now that he has constantly been in the public eye, his manner of speaking cannot help but get some attention. It seems that speech is difficult for him, and that his voice is constantly raspy.
This is not simply a result of overusing his voice box due to the rigors of giving rousing speeches. He has been diagnosed with a rare voice condition known as spasmodic dysphonia.
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What is spasmodic dysphonia? The disorder behind Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s speech impediment
Spasmodic dysphonia is a neurological disorder that affects the muscles of the voice box or larynx, and leads to involuntary spasms or contractions of the vocal cords. The exact cause of this condition is not known, according to Dysphonia International.
These spasms disrupt the normal flow of air during speech, resulting in changes to the voice quality, such as breaks, pauses, or interruptions while talking. The voice may sound strained, shaky, or hoarse.
There are two main types of spasmodic dysphonia. Adductor spasmodic dysphonia causes the vocal cords to spasm and close together tightly, causing a strained or choked voice quality. Speech may be interrupted or difficult to initiate.
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The less common abductor spasmodic dysphonia on the other hand causes the vocal cords to spasm and open unexpectedly during speech, leading to a breathy or weak voice quality. Speaking may be broken off by involuntary breathy pauses.
Spasmodic dysphonia can vary in severity and may worsen over time. It can have a significant impact on communication and quality of life, as it can interfere with daily interactions, work, and social activities.
Though the exact cause of this condition is not fully understood, it is believed to involve a combination of genetic, neurological, and environmental factors.
Treatment options may include speech therapy, botulinum toxin injections to temporarily paralyze the affected muscles, and in some cases, surgery.