Voice Disorders
Voice disorders are characterized by an impairment in volume, pitch, flexibility, and overall quality of your voice. Changes may be structural or due to an impairment in your nervous system. Other times, voice disorders occur due to behavioral misuse of the respiratory and voice systems.
Your SLP will team up and communicate with other professionals to develop the best treatment plan for you. These professionals may include:
Symptoms of dysphonia may include:
Your SLP will team up and communicate with other professionals to develop the best treatment plan for you. These professionals may include:
- Oncologist/surgeon
- Otolaryngologist (ENT)
- Pulmonologist
- Gastroenterologist
- Neurologist
- Allergist
Symptoms of dysphonia may include:
- Changes in voice quality (rough, breathy, strained, strangled)
- Loss of voice
- Pitch change (too high or too low)
- Pitch breaks
- Weak voice
- Shaky voice
- Increased effort needed to talk, quick to fatigue
- Throat irritation or frequent throat clearing
- Change in your voice throughout the day or after use
What is diaphragmatic breathing? |
Your diaphragm is the large muscle below the lungs. It is the most EFFICIENT muscle for breathing. Often times, voice function is impacted by reduced breath support. When diaphragmatic breathing is practiced correctly and consistently, the benefits include:
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Watch this VIDEO to practice diaphragmatic breathing at home!
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