There have been many recognitions found that cause voice or vocal disorders. Whereas diagnosis was once very basic, relying primarily on the ears and eyes of the physician, today a variety of diagnostic techniques are available which have more accurate and complete diagnosis and subsequent improved treatment. Despite, this improvement in diagnosis, finding the correct or full etiology of a voice disorder can be challenging.
Although we all know that the most frequent cause of damaged vocal cords or voice disorders is misuse or abuse of the voice, physicians need to work with a patient and find out the other possible causes of their vocal cord damage. A few of the very common reasons for vocal cord damage is acid reflux laryngitis, yelling or screaming. According to some researches, it has been found that reflux laryngitis is one of the very common reasons for vocal cord disorders, along with laryngeal paresis.
Symptoms of a damaged vocal cords
People who use their voice for work – like teachers, singers, and politicians, are at risk of vocal cord disorders. The main symptom of damaged vocal cords is a sudden change in the voice. Additional symptoms can include:
- Voice has become raspy or hoarse
- Pitch of the voice sounds deeper
- High notes are harder to hit when singing
- Talking has become more difficult or painful
- Need to clear the throat frequently
With vocal cord disorders, symptoms can also include trouble in breathing. The throat can feel tight; however, the above-mentioned symptoms usually come and go.
When to see a doctor
Ask a healthcare provider if:
- Your voice does not feel normal in 2-4 weeks after a cold or illness.
- You can’t speak completely for more than a few days.
- You feel trouble in breathing.
- A change in your voice lasts longer than a month.
Your health care expert may recommend you to see an ENT doctor or an alternative non-surgical voice repair specialist.
Treatment for vocal cord disorders
Vocal cord disorders caused by vocal abuse or misuse are easily preventable. Besides, most disorders of vocal cords can be reversed. How to repair damaged vocal cords will be specifically determined by your doctor or an alternative voice repair specialist, while keeping in mind a few points:
- Your age, overall health, and medical history
- Extent and type of vocal cord disorders
- Expectations for the course of treatment and recovery
Treatment for your damaged vocal cords may include resting the voice, eliminating the harmful behavior/habits or changing the lifestyle causing vocal cord disorders or the best non-surgical form of speech therapy. Yes, your health expert may recommend visiting a voice & speech specialist who has special training in treating your voice disorder, speech problem, or even swallowing difficulties – all of which can also negatively affect your communication.
For more information on voice recovery and enhancement, check out the official website of The Royans Institute for Non-Surgical Voice Repair.