When an individual speaks, their vocal folds collide and vibrate over 100 times per second to produce sound. However, this seemingly simple process can become problematic, as highlighted by a study from Harvard Medical School. The study found that 12.2% of Americans reported experiencing voice problems in 2022, a significant increase from 7.6% a decade earlier. These issues can manifest in various forms, including spasmodic dysphonia, a neurologic condition known as laryngeal dystonia, and can affect daily communication and quality of life.
Voice problems have been on the rise, with a variety of causes contributing to this increase. Phonotrauma, for instance, is a common cause among individuals who frequently use their voices for professional purposes. According to Adam Lloyd, "We call that phonotrauma, meaning sound trauma." When vocal folds are overused or improperly used, they can become swollen, leading to more severe injuries to their delicate lining. Poor posture and crooked necks can also contribute to vocal issues.
In severe cases, a change in the voice may indicate underlying diseases. Stroke survivors face a particularly high risk, with about a quarter experiencing impaired speech. Changes in voice can be one of the first signs of a disease, necessitating prompt medical evaluation.
Spasmodic dysphonia, a specific vocal disorder, can be managed with Botox shots administered into the muscles of the vocal folds every three to four months. This treatment, along with Botox injections for essential tremor-induced vocal changes, offers relief for those affected.
“I felt like a soccer player who had lost the use of his legs,” – Paul Strikwerda
Paul Strikwerda's experience exemplifies the emotional impact of losing one's voice. He recalls feeling despair and worthlessness during his struggle with voice loss.
“I went through periods of despair, feeling worthless, and unsure of what the future would hold.” – Paul Strikwerda
The challenges of dealing with voice problems extend beyond physical symptoms. For many, it affects their ability to perform everyday activities, impeding communication and complicating simple tasks like ordering food or conducting business transactions.
“When you have a problem with your voice, it slows everything down,” – Adam Lloyd
“It makes the simplest task of communicating, ordering food, or doing a business transaction much more complicated.” – Adam Lloyd
Vocal issues often lead to social stigma and altered perceptions from others.
“People will often say that people look at them differently or treat them differently when they have a voice that differs from what's considered to be normal,” – Adam Lloyd
Physical and emotional struggles are common among those with voice conditions. Resting the voice is one way to manage symptoms, but it is not always enough. In some cases, professional guidance becomes necessary.
“We may also recommend exercises that decrease the impact stress of how we're using our voice: speaking easier, speaking a little softer, and trying to have what we call better vocal hygiene,” – Adam Lloyd
Christina Kang Rosow emphasizes the importance of maintaining vocal fold health through hydration.
“If your vocal folds are dry, they don't vibrate well,” – Christina Kang Rosow
“And then people want to have a better voice, so they push themselves, and it's like a domino effect.” – Christina Kang Rosow
After illness or strain, temporary vocal changes are common. Individuals may notice differences for a week following a cold or after vocally demanding activities like attending concerts.
To diagnose voice problems accurately, laryngologists often use videostroboscopy to examine the vocal folds for lesions. This comprehensive examination helps identify the root cause of vocal changes.
Strikwerda's journey toward recovery involved working with healthcare professionals to adapt to his new voice.
“Working with a neuropsychologist, I learned how to be soft on myself, be patient, and to celebrate progress, no matter how small,” – Paul Strikwerda
“I went through a period of mourning, saying goodbye to the old Paul, and inventing the new one, almost from scratch.” – Paul Strikwerda
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