It’s incredible how different each of our voices are! Your voice is unique and likely a part of your identity. But what happens when your voice isn’t coming out how you like or expect?
What is a Voice Disorder?
If your voice does not meet your daily needs or is inappropriate for your age, gender, or cultural background, you likely have a voice disorder. A voice disorder is any deviation from the normal production of vocal sounds. Even if others don’t perceive your voice as different, if you’re concerned that your voice is abnormal, a voice disorder is present. When the vocal folds (also known as vocal cords) are not functioning optimally, you may experience changes in your voice’s pitch, volume, tone, or quality. These changes can result in speech, singing, and everyday communication difficulties.
Types of Voice Disorders
There are various voice disorders, each with its characteristics and causes. Two categories of voice disorders that speech pathologists encounter include:
Organic Voice Disorders
Organic voice disorders are typically caused by physical or structural issues in the vocal mechanism. These disorders often arise from factors such as vocal cord nodules or polyps, vocal cord paralysis, laryngeal cancer, or other medical conditions. Organic voice disorders can result in hoarseness, breathiness, vocal fatigue, or a complete loss of voice. Treatment for organic voice disorders may involve medical intervention, surgery, or a combination of therapies offered by a speech pathologist in collaboration with other healthcare professionals.
Functional Voice Disorders
Functional voice disorders, on the other hand, are not caused by structural abnormalities. Instead, they arise from improper or inefficient use of the vocal mechanism. Some common causes of functional voice disorders include vocal misuse or abuse, excessive throat clearing, speaking with incorrect pitch or loudness, or heightened tension in the muscles surrounding the larynx. Functional voice disorders can lead to voice fatigue, vocal strain, or even the complete loss of voice. Thankfully, functional voice disorders are highly treatable with the help of speech pathology techniques.
It is important to note that some voice disorders may have elements of both organic and functional components. A comprehensive evaluation by a qualified speech pathologist can help determine the underlying causes of the disorder and guide appropriate treatment.
How Speech Pathology Can Help
Speech pathologists are highly trained professionals specialising in diagnosing and treating voice disorders. Here are some ways they can support individuals with voice disorders:
1. Voice Assessment: Speech pathologists conduct thorough evaluations to identify a voice disorder’s underlying causes and specific characteristics. They can gain insights into the individual’s unique needs through vocal function testing, pitch analysis, and perceptual assessments.
2. Treatment: After an accurate diagnosis, speech pathologists develop personalised treatment plans tailored to the individual’s voice disorder. Therapy sessions focus on improving vocal function, strategies to reduce vocal misuse or abuse, and techniques to manage and control breathing patterns. The goal is to optimise vocal production and improve the overall quality of the voice.
3. Educational Support: Speech pathologists also provide education on healthy vocal practices, vocal warm-up exercises, and techniques to prevent future voice disorders. They equip individuals with the knowledge and tools to maintain a healthy voice.
4. Collaboration: Speech pathologists collaboratively work with other healthcare professionals to ensure integrated and comprehensive care for individuals with voice disorders. This multidisciplinary approach enhances treatment outcomes and supports long-term vocal health.
Voice disorders can significantly impact an individual’s daily life. Speech pathologists can help assess, treat and reduce their impact.
About The Author:
Saajida Bhorat is a recognised Speech Pathologist working out of the Optimum Health Solutions clinics in Tasmania.
