What causes voice problems?
Patients may experience voice problems for a variety of reasons, including voice abuse or overuse, infection, disease, acid reflux, age, trauma, chemical exposure, cancer, or a neurological pathology. Our patients include professional and non-professional singers, speakers, teachers, attorneys, salespeople, actors or any individual experiencing a vocal pathology.
What are vocal fold nodules and polyps?
Vocal fold nodules are benign growths on both vocal folds that are caused by vocal abuse. Over time, repeated misuse of the vocal folds results in soft, swollen spots on each vocal fold that develop into harder, callus-like growths. The nodules will become larger and more stiff the longer the vocal abuse continues.
Polyps, on the other hand, can take a number of forms and are sometimes caused by vocal abuse. Polyps appear on either one or both of the vocal folds and appear as a swelling or bump (like a nodule) or a blister-like lesion. Most polyps are larger than nodules.
How is a voice disorder diagnosed?
If you have experienced a hoarse voice for more than 2 to 3 weeks, you should see your GP, who will then refer you to an "ENT" (Ear Nose Throat) specialist. "ENT" doctors can diagnose vocal nodules or any other voice pathology, usually by inserting a scope into the nose or mouth to observe the vocal folds and surrounding laryngeal area. By examining one's pitch, loudness, quality, and movement of one's folds, and ENT should be able to make an accurate diagnosis.
How can a voice disorder be treated?
Nodules and polyps may be treated medically, surgically, and/or behaviourally. Surgery is usually a last resort if behaviour therapy or medical treatment did not help the voice. Contributing medical problems may be treated to reduce their impact on the vocal folds. This includes treatment for gastroesophageal reflux, allergies and thyroid problems.
Voice Therapy
A majority of people receive behavioural intervention, or voice therapy, from specialised Speech and Language Therapist like ourselves. In our initial assessment we will assess vocal quality, pitch, loudness, ability to sustain voicing, and other characteristics of the voice. Voice therapy involves teaching good vocal hygiene, eliminating vocal abuses, and direct voice treatment to alter pitch, loudness, or breath support for good voicing as well as stress reduction techniques and relaxation exercises.