The Top 3 Medical Causes of Vocal Problems

July 30, 2010

Vocal health expert Margaret Baroody sheds light on common medical conditions that are at the root of vocal ailments.

1. Undiagnosed allergies or reflux (laryngopharangeal reflux)

These conditions can cause insidious vocal difficulties that, if not diagnosed, can lead to more serious vocal injuries. Typical symptoms include frequent throat clearing, a sensation of something in the throat, prolonged vocal warm-up, difficulty finding the core of the vocal sound (especially on open vowels), and unclear vocal quality. The voice may fatigue more quickly because you are trying so hard to find a clearer tone.

Singers who have allergies or reflux correctly diagnosed and treated often experience a near-phenomenal sense of clearer voice and easier vocal production.

2. Vocal fold paresis or weakness

A weakness in the nerves that work the vocal folds can cause symptoms such as reduced vocal endurance (quicker vocal fatigue), breathiness or lack of resonance (particularly in the middle voice), occasional loss of higher notes, as well as other things. This is a diagnosis that is often missed by the less experienced voice doctor. It is a problem that can often be corrected with specific vocal exercises.

3. Vocal fold masses

Benign bumps on the vocal folds (cysts, polyps, nodules) are a fairly common occurrence and they can cause breathiness, hoarseness, loss of range, and other things. It is also possible to have a vocal fold mass that is non-symptomatic; in other words, it does not cause significant problems in your singing voice. Again, it can take a knowledgeable voice doc to help you determine if your vocal fold mass is causing your vocal complaints.

Be aware that many different vocal problems can cause similar vocal symptoms so if you are having a vocal problem, it is important to be examined by an experienced voice doctor. The good news is that many vocal problems can be addressed and fixed with a combination of appropriate singing instruction, good vocal hygiene, and, when needed, timely medical intervention. Countless people sing for a lifetime without significant vocal problems. Seek help if you need it and, otherwise, enjoy the gift of singing!