A voice disorder can be anything that changes the way you sound when you speak. If left untreated, voice disorders can impact your overall quality of life, change the way others see you and how you feel about yourself. If you are experiencing changes in your voice — a hoarse or raspy voice, loss of speech volume, pitch changes, effortful speech or feeling like you have a ”lump” in your throat — Speech Therapy can help!
Speech Therapists provide treatment to adults with voice disorders including chronic hoarseness, vocal cord nodules, vocal cord lesions, vocal cord polyps, vocal cord paralysis, paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder (PVFM), muscle tension dysphonia, vocal cord dysfunction (VCD), and chronic cough.
Prior to starting voice therapy, you will need to be seen by an Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) medical provider to complete a laryngeal examination to identify the cause of your voice problem and to determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
How can voice therapy help?
A Speech Therapist can provide education and teach specific exercises to achieve and maintain good vocal quality, pitch, loudness. Additionally, your Speech Therapist can teach you good vs bad voice habits.
Some examples of good voice habits, also known as vocal hygiene include:
Stay hydrated - make sure to drink plenty of water which will keep your mouth and throat lubricated.
Limit caffeine and alcohol intake - these types of drinks can dry out your throat.
Be careful about clearing your throat which can cause throat irritation. If you have to clear your throat or cough, try to do it more gently, less often or instead try to take a drink of water.
Control acid reflux — this can cause irritation to your voice box.
Don’t smoke or use tobacco products. Among other medical consequences, smoking can be very damaging to your voice box.
Don’t talk too loudly, but don’t whisper either - both yelling and whispering can irritate your throat.
Be careful about singing - always warm up before singing.
Practice vocal rest when your voice is hoarse - try not to talk any more than absolutely necessary to allow time for your voice box to rest.
Noticing any changes or concerns discussed above? Call Engage Therapy and wellness in Syracuse NY today to set up an evaluation at 315-810-2423 or email info@brainbodybetter.com.