Practical Tips to Prevent Dysphonia in Voice Professionals.
The voice is a fundamental work tool for many people: teachers, singers, lawyers, salespeople,
healthcare professionals… But what happens when we use it for hours without rest or in unfavorable environments?
The voice becomes fatigued, hoarse, and the dreaded dysphonia appears..
What Is Dysphonia?
It is an alteration in the timbre, volume, or pitch of the voice. It may be caused by vocal strain, inflammation,
or problems with the vocal cords.
Tips to Care for Your Voice if You Speak a Lot:
Stay hydrated: Drink water throughout the day. Well-hydrated mucous membranes vibrate better.
Take speaking breaks: Short rests between classes or meetings help prevent overexertion.
Avoid shouting or forcing your voice: Use a microphone if you teach large groups.
Don’t speak in noisy environments: Vocal effort increases significantly.
Avoid frequent coughing or throat clearing: This hits the vocal cords. Drink water or swallow instead.
Do vocal warm-ups if you use your voice extensively: Just as a singer or actor would.
When to See an ENT Specialist?
Although many cases of dysphonia are temporary and due to vocal strain, you shouldn’t ignore certain
symptoms—especially if your voice is your work tool. Here are some warning signs that indicate you should be
evaluated by an otolaryngologist:
- Hoarseness or a tired voice lasting more than two weeks, without an apparent cause such as a cold.
- Changes in pitch or timbre that don’t improve with rest.
- Vocal fatigue at the end of the day, especially if this didn’t happen before.
- Sensation of a foreign body, itching, or constant need to clear your throat.
- Pain when speaking or swallowing.
- Total loss of voice (aphonia) lasting more than a few days.
- History of smoking, reflux, or professional voice use.
During the consultation, a vocal examination is performed using laryngoscopy or fibroscopy, which allows direct
visualization of the vocal cords to assess for signs of inflammation, nodules, polyps, edema, or functional alterations.
Why Is This Important?
Because persistent dysphonia lasting more than two weeks can be the first sign of a serious vocal problem.
Legal Notice:The information contained in this blog is for informational purposes only and is presented in a summarized
and simplified form. It should not be considered complete or reliable information for diagnosis, treatment, or any medical
decision-making. The recommendations provided here do not replace professional consultation, evaluation, or advice. If you
have any doubts or symptoms, you should always seek care from a qualified healthcare professional.
