Week 3: Vocal Hygiene

Transition from vocal abuse to phonotrauma

• To emphasize the importance of vocal training

• To soften the connotation that people were purposefully hurting themselves by engaging in behaviors like yelling, prolonged speaking, throat clearing, or smoking

• To promote the use of vocal warm-ups before speaking

• To highlight the benefits of vocal rest after prolonged use

Diuretics

• Drying agents that can include caffeine, alcohol, medications (prescription & OTC)

• Agents that increase blood pressure and fluid retention

• Substances that promote the production of mucus

• Medications that are used to treat bacterial infections

Phonotrauma

• Behaviors that misuse or abuse the true vocal folds and may lead to organic changes to the laryngeal tissues and structures

• A type of vocal training technique to enhance vocal performance

• A medical condition affecting the vocal cords due to overuse

• A psychological disorder related to voice perception

Intrinsic vocal health factors

• Factors outside of volitional control like voice changes related to hormonal changes (e.g., menstruation, puberty)

• Factors that can be controlled through vocal training and practice

• Environmental factors such as humidity and temperature

• Dietary choices that affect vocal quality

Aphonia

• Complete absence of voice

• Partial loss of voice

• Inability to speak due to emotional distress

• Voice that is hoarse or weak

Vocal attrition

• Wearing away of the voice with use

• Improvement of vocal strength over time

• Loss of vocal pitch due to aging

• Increased vocal range through practice

Vocal fatigue

• Discomfort, pain, or reduced vocal efficiency related to the engagement of muscles when producing sound rather than breath support

• A feeling of relaxation and ease in vocal production

• Increased vocal range and clarity during singing

• A condition where the voice becomes stronger with use

Effects of smoking

• Decreased mucus production

• Increased lung capacity

• Improved throat health

• Enhanced oxygen delivery

Laryngopharyngeal reflux disease

• A condition where acid reflux causes chemical burns and inflammation in the larynx.

• A type of allergy affecting the throat and voice box.

• A viral infection leading to swelling of the vocal cords.

• A benign tumor in the throat causing difficulty in swallowing.

Odynophonia

• Discomfort or pain when speaking

• A condition characterized by difficulty in swallowing

• A type of voice disorder caused by overuse

• A speech condition resulting in slurred speech