We use our voices daily to connect with others, whether we’re at work or spending time with friends and family. Professionals like singers, teachers and lawyers especially rely on them while on the job. If you’re experiencing problems with your voice, it’s important to respond to them appropriately. At ENT & Allergy of Georgia, we can provide diagnosis and treatment, and you’ll soon be speaking or singing with fewer difficulties.
The vocal folds, or groups of muscle tissue in the larynx, are normally open to allow breathing. When you speak, they close and air from the lungs makes them vibrate. This produces sound. Your voice’s pitch, volume and tone are determined by the size and shape of your vocal folds. When illness or disease affects your voice, it can change the pitch, volume and sound quality.
Symptoms of vocal damage can include:
An estimated 7.5 million people experience vocal damage.
Risk factors for vocal damage include
It’s important to avoid straining your vocal folds through improper pitch and volume. You can keep the folds moist by drinking water, especially when speaking. Limit caffeine and alcohol intake since these can dry out your throat. If you’re experiencing vocal strain, it’s crucial to rest your voice to avoid permanent damage.
Some voice disorders can be treated with medication or speech therapy, but others like vocal cord lesions may require surgery. No matter what treatment you need, ENT & Allergy of Georgia will be here to guide you through the process.
