Vocal Abuse

 

What is Vocal Abuse?

    

Vocal abuse is any behavior or occurrence that strains or injures the vocal cords causing physical damage.

Vocally abusive behavior includes but is not limited to:

·        Excessive talking

·        Frequent throat clearing

·        Coughing

·        Sneezing forcefully and loudly

·        Smoking

·        Screaming and yelling

·        Talking in noisy situations

·        Improper use of voice

o       Speaking too loud

o       Speaking unusually high or low pitch

 

 

A Summary compiled from National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

 

Who is in Danger of Vocal Abuse?

 

·        Lawyers

·        Teachers

·        Clergy

·        Cheerleaders

·        Singers

·        Actors

·        Anyone who uses their voice excessively

·        Babies

·        Toddlers

 

Much of the chronic hoarseness experienced by children is caused by vocal abuse or misuse.

 

A Summary compiled from National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders

 

How can I avoid Vocal Abuse?

·        Drink at least 4-8 ounces of water per day.

·        Avoid excessive or frequent throat clearing. Try sipping water instead.

·        Get plenty of sleep. Fatigue can cause the voice to sound hoarse.

·        Use plenty of breath support it is essential.

·        Take deep breaths from the abdomen before speaking.

·        Cut back on caffeine, alcohol and dairy products. These create a thick mucous and dry the throat.

·        Avoid menthol throat lozenges. These can dry the throat.

·        Avoid smoking.

·        Avoid people who smoke.

·        Avoid noxious fumes. These are irritating and damaging to the vocal cords.

·        Don’t raise your voice above others in a noisy situation.

A Summary of information from the  Center for Voice and Swallowing

 

 

 

 

 

Web design by Angela Odom

April 30, 2006