Specialists in Otolaryngology speak of the voice as the instrument of oral communication, sonorized air. The parts of the body involved in voice production are:
- Breathing organs: nose, mouth, pharynx, trachea, bronchi, lungs and other musculatures (diaphragm, intercostal…).
- Organs of phonation: larynx (vocal cords) and sound box (pharynx-mouth-nose).
Voice is produced when air passes through the vocal cords. When the vocal cords are in the closed position, the air vibrates the tissue that covers them, producing sound.
What is functional dysphonia?
It is the alteration of one of the components of the voice. There is scientific evidence that it affects 20% of adults and that it is due to the continuous abuse or misuse of the voice. To the ear, the voice is perceived as hoarse, muffled and/or forced.
What organic processes usually accompany functional dysphonia?
Nodules are the most frequent process. They are benign, small, whitish lesions. They usually present a quick recovery by means of rest and voice care if early action is taken. Other processes such as polyps or laryngeal edema require more precise, intense and continuous care.
Risk factors for functional dysphonia
- Shouting, speaking loudly or shouting.
- Speak quickly and run over words.
- Talking in a noisy environment.
- Tense, anxious or stressed conversations.
- Talking while exhausting the air from the lungs.
- Lack of hydration.
- Not resting when throat discomfort occurs.
In addition, these circumstances generate slight laryngeal trauma that, in the short term, cause dysphonia of easy recovery, but in the medium term lead to stable dysphonia, nodules, polyps, edemas…
Characteristics of the patient with functional dysphonia
They are usually people with a lot of activity, impulsivity, stress,… exposed to the need to speak continuously and intensely.
Tips for voice care
Correct vocal habits should be worked on. Among others, it is advisable to
- avoid shouting or speaking above the ambient noise,
- avoid rapid or impulsive speech,
- encourage deep breathing,
- drink water frequently,
- avoid tobacco and alcohol,
- encourage quiet communication,
- practice frequent voice rest (for a few hours),
- react with rest to the “warnings” of the larynx: dryness, dysphonia, pain, itching, irritation, sensation of inflammation,…
- avoid very cold or very hot drinks,
- relax neck muscle tension.