7 ways you can prevent Vocal Disorders

Vocal disorder, also called voice disorder, is a problem in which the quality of the voice is affected. It occurs when the vocal cords in the throat do not vibrate normally causing changes in various voice parameters like pitch, tone or volume. Thus, the way we communicate is significantly impacted due to this disorder. Some of the common symptoms that indicate abnormal voice are hoarseness, incoherent speaking, and inability to sing high notes, irritated throat, swallowing difficulty and spoken sounds accompanied by quivering, weakness or strain.

The treatment for this problem depends on the cause. An accurate and quick diagnosis can resolve this issue fully. Vikram ENT Hospital, a famous ENT hospital in Coimbatore, is globally renowned for effective treatment of all ENT problems including vocal disorders. It is supported by state-of-art infrastructure, highly skilled ENT specialists and the latest technology tools to deliver promising outcomes to multiple patients.

Causes of Vocal Disorders

• Abnormal growths like vocal cord cysts and vocal polyps
• Neurological diseases like Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis
• Inflammation and swelling of the vocal cords
• Exposure to harmful chemicals, smoking, substance abuse
• Straining and overuse of vocal cords
• Hormonal imbalances including thyroid disorders
• Hypernasal speech
• Upper Respiratory Tract Infections
• Psychological Trauma
• Oral Thrush

Diagnosis and Treatment of Voice Disorders

The diagnosis of voice disorders is done by the ENT specialist after evaluating the patient symptoms. Imaging tests like x-rays and MRIs and other tests like laryngoscopy, laryngeal electromyography and stroboscopy may be done to examine the throat and vocal cords.

Voice correction treatment is given to rectify the problem based on the cause of the vocal disorder. The approaches used are -

• Making lifestyle changes- Resting the voice periodically, avoiding smoking and inhalation of harmful chemicals, drinking plenty of water and preventing voice misuse by not yelling or shouting can significantly reduce the symptoms.
• Speech therapy-Consulting a speech therapist can be beneficial for resolving some voice disorders. Therapists help the patients in doing certain exercises and making modifications in speaking mannerisms to restore the voice. Deep breathing exercises are especially useful for empowering vocalizations. Speech therapy for children has given promising results for young children with speech, language and voice disorders and swallowing problems.
• Medications and Injections- Medicines are prescribed if vocal disorders are caused by digestive problems such as gastric reflux or hormonal variations like thyroid or female hormones. Sometimes injections are given to treat the muscular spasms in the throat or to ensure better closing of vocal cords.
• Surgical intervention-ENT surgeons will perform surgery to remove abnormal tissue growths like polyps and tumours in the throat which disrupt the voice. If the growth is cancerous, radiation therapy may also be given.

Ways to prevent vocal disorders

• Always remain well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water especially. If you are taking caffeinated beverages, balance that intake with sufficient water.
• Use a humidifier particularly if you are staying in dry climates and the winter season. Typically, a humidity of thirty percent in the surroundings is recommended.
• Practice healthy breathing techniques while singing and conversing. Take deep breaths from the chest periodically to support the voice and do not merely rely on the throat for speaking. Also, do breathing control exercises so that the vocal cords do not strain.
• Rest the voice when you are sick as illness burdens it with extra stress. Minimize talking when the voice is hoarse and tired. You must also avoid using extremes of the vocal ranges as it damages the voice.
• Consider taking voice therapy treatment. The professional support and assistance of speech-language therapist can tackle voice problems by recommending ways for healthily using the voice for communication.
• Eat a nutritious diet with plenty of whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables to protect the mucus membrane of the throat. Avoid spicy foods as they cause reflux resulting in discomfort due to the backward movement of stomach acid to the throat. If you experience persistent symptoms of heartburns, consult the doctor immediately.
• Ensure that you follow an exercise routine regularly. That helps to boost stamina, muscle tone and also to maintain good posture and breathing. All these factors in turn aid proper speaking without pressurizing the vocal cords.

Thus, a disciplined lifestyle with a balanced diet, exercise and clean habits can substantially prevent vocal disorders.