Voice Problems
What is a Voice Problem?
The American Speech, Language and Hearing Association defines a voice problem as having a pitch, loudness or vocal quality which draws attention to itself rather than to what the speaker is saying. A voice problem may also include pain, discomfort or fatigue when voicing. Voice Disorders range from a mild laryngitis to severe life-threatening diseases that may require extensive treatments. Any hoarseness or voice change which persists for longer than two weeks should be medically evaluated.
Some common signs of a voice disorder include:
Hoarseness
Loss of voice, voice breaks
Changes in pitch
Shortness of breath while speaking or singing
Difficulty maintain/initiating soft voice
Difficulty maintain/initiating loud voice
Sore or scratchy throat
Vocal fatigue when talking
Neck and/or jaw muscle tension
Loss of singing range
Prolonged warm-up time
Constant throat-clearing or coughing
Dry throat or mouth
Tickling or choking sensation
Difficulty swallowing
Lump in throat
Frequent bad breath
Excess mucous or phlegm
Acidic taste in mouth
The Importance of Voice Disorders
voice_disorders
Physicians:
04/15/2010
