The human voice is one of the most important aspects of human identity because it allows people to express themselves and communicate with others. Misuse of the voice, on the other hand, can result in serious consequences, such as hoarseness, laryngitis, and, in extreme circumstances, vocal paralysis.
There are various treatment techniques that can relieve strain in the larynx and keep a clear and healthy voice to prevent these side effects. It’s common to prefer voice surgery to voice treatment to cure a voice condition fast and easily, but therapy has been proven to be more beneficial over time. Voice therapy teaches individuals with voice problems to appropriate vocal habits, ensures a stronger voice for a longer period, and minimizes the risk of future voice disorders. Hence, in most cases, it is a safer and more effective alternative to voice surgery.
What are the Different Types of Voice Disorders?
A wide range of factors can contribute to voice disorders. They can be classified into the following categories:
Functional voice disorders: Speaking frequently and loudly might lead to functional voice issues. Some people communicate with too much power or stress without even realizing it. This could be due to a high level of stress or a habit of employing an unpleasant breathing method. Others may speak in a tone that is inappropriate for them.
Organic voice disorders: Changes in the larynx are the cause of organic voice problems. Physical alterations such as vocal nodules, on the other hand, can occur as a result of a functional voice disease. Another common organic voice issue is vocal cord paralysis, which can arise after thyroid surgery, for example. Smoking, inflammations, stroke, and laryngeal cancer are some of the other causes.
Psychogenic voice disorders: Psychogenic vocal disorders occur when a person’s voice becomes hoarse, cracked, or completely silent as a result of a traumatic incident, chronic stress, or a mental condition such as depression.