Trach ties

Speech and Other Health Related Links Page

Links are listed in no particular order. Any Products listed are neither endorsed or encouraged by Trach-ties and are solely listed for information purposes.

Speech

Speech is one of those things that you take for granted everyday. From the day we are born we make noise using our vocal cords. One doesn't have to think to speak, it just happens. Many don't really think about speech until it's difficult or not there. A good bout of laryngitis can sometimes make you appreciate speech more than you normally would. Speech of some sort seems essential in society. But what happens when that changes?

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Laryngeal Dystonia or Spasmodic Dysphonia are events that changes speech. It is a dystonia that affects the vocal cords. The vocal cords go into spasm, making speech difficult. It sounds like laryngitis, or worse no voice at all, merely squeaks. There are treatments available which can lessen the spasm. But what happens when that is ineffective?

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That is when augmentive speech is needed. Whether its an electrolarynx, a text to speech device, sign language, or other augmentive speech device. We all as humans have a need to communicate. Voice just happens to be the most widely used communication skill. So when speech is impaired we have to seek alternatives to meet that need. Communication is as basic a need as breathing. Those with speech impairments cannot go through life not communicating, so alternatives have been found to accomplish this.

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Below are links to many assorted speech alternatives.

Speech Links

Lauder Speech Assistance Devices

Passy Muir Speaking Valves for Trachs

Zygo Augmentive Communication Devices

Gus Communication Software

National Institue of Deafness and Communication Disorders

Aurora Text to Speech Software

Crestwood Communication Aids

Adaptive Technology Devices

Bell Laboratories Text to Speech Synthesis

AT&T Laboratories Text to Speech Synthesis

Text to Speech Synthesis Info

Eloquent Technology, Incorporated

SoftVoice Inc.

DEC Talk

Servox Electrolayrnge

Speech Enhancements

Eletrolarynx

Professional Speech Aid Service

E Z Speech Homepage

ASL interactive Page

Sign Language Videos

Sign Writing

ASL Dictionary

MasterTech's ASL Webpage

DeafWorldWeb ASL Dictionary

Disclaimer; In no way are these web pages or links intended to replace care by a qualified medical professional. They are here for information only. If you feel you fit any of the symptoms listed in any of these links you should seek care from a qualified medical professional.