Understanding Common Vocal Injuries
Your voice is one of the most delicate and powerful tools you have. Whether you’re a singer, teacher, speaker, or someone whose job demands voice use, it’s essential to understand the potential risks and how to prevent them. Vocal injuries can sneak up on even the most experienced voice users, but with the right information and habits, you can protect your voice and ensure it stays healthy and strong.
Let’s break down the most common vocal injuries, how they occur, and what you can do about them.
1. Vocal Nodules: Callouses of Your Vocal Folds
What are they? Vocal nodules are small, non-cancerous growths that develop on the vocal folds due to repetitive strain. Think of them as the callouses of your cords —caused by overuse, improper technique, forceful use, shouting or singing without rest.
Symptoms: Hoarseness, a raspy quality throughout all voice tasks, reduced vocal range, or a feeling of strain while speaking or singing.
Prevention: Use proper vocal techniques, warm up your voice before use, and avoid yelling or whispering excessively. Hydration and vocal rest are also key.
Treatment: Voice therapy and rehabilitation is usually curative.
2. Vocal Polyps: Gelatinous Bump of the Vocal Fold
What are they? Polyps are fluid-filled lesions that form on the vocal folds, often from a single traumatic event (like a sudden scream). They can also be caused by prolonged misuse. Unlike nodules, polyps are softer and require different treatment.
Symptoms: Persistent hoarseness, breathy voice quality, or difficulty reaching higher pitches. Pitchiness/instability, unstable vocal break, flipping voice.
Prevention: Avoid vocal strain and implement voice rest when the voice changes. If your voice feels fatigued, give it a break.
Treatment: Voice therapy may be curative or diminish symptoms. Surgery may be required.
3. Vocal Hemorrhage: When Blood Meets the Vocal Folds
What is it? A vocal hemorrhage occurs when a blood vessel in the vocal folds bursts, often from vocal strain, such as coughing, screaming or pushing your voice. It usually requires immediate rest and can lead to the formation of permanent vocal injury.
Symptoms: Sudden loss of voice, hoarseness, or a sharp pain during vocalization.
Prevention: Warm up your voice, avoid shouting, and respect your vocal limits. If you feel sudden strain, stop immediately.
Treatment: Voice rest and a preventative plan with your laryngologist.
4. Laryngitis: Your Voice’s SOS Signal
What is it? Laryngitis is inflammation of the vocal folds, often caused by overuse, illness, or environmental irritants. While it’s usually temporary, ignoring it can lead to longer-term issues.
Symptoms: Hoarseness, loss of voice, or a sore throat.
Prevention: Stay hydrated, avoid speaking over loud environments, and steer clear of smoking or other irritants. If you’re sick, give your voice extra rest.
Treatment: Determine the cause with your laryngologist and eliminate the source of the problem.
5. Muscle Tension Dysphonia: The Silent Strain
What is it? Muscle tension dysphonia (MTD) occurs when the muscles around the vocal folds overcompensate, leading to tension and strain. It’s often linked to stress or improper vocal technique.
Symptoms: A tight, strained voice, vocal fatigue, or pain while speaking.
Prevention: Focus on relaxation techniques, proper posture, and breathing support. Consider working with a vocal coach or therapist to fine-tune your technique.
Treatment: Voice therapy is usually curative.
Care for your voice by hydrating plenty, resting your voice, listening to your body, and active treatment planning with your laryngologist. Need professional help? Center for Vocal Health is here for you. Click here to contact us today!
