Vocal Strain: Tips for Singers and Everyday Talkers

Vocal cords can easily feel fatigued?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask a few questions, and I apologize for taking up your time:
1.
I am someone who loves listening to music, and while showering, melodies often play in my mind, causing my vocal cords to exert effort involuntarily.
However, I have always been someone who is afraid of disturbing others, so I usually refrain from making any sound.
Sometimes, I feel that my vocal cords are a bit fatigued, but I'm not entirely sure what normal vocal cord function should feel like.
I wonder if exerting my vocal cords involuntarily without allowing airflow to produce sound could harm them?
2.
After noticing the fatigue, I remind myself not to do this, but during showering, when I relax, melodies suddenly come to mind, and I find myself unconsciously repeating the same behavior.
I'm not sure what to do about this.
3.
A speech therapy clinic has opened near my home.
I usually don't talk much, as I find speaking tiring and tend to speak softly.
Previously, when I spoke about five pages of content in Japanese, I felt extremely fatigued.
I would like to know if clinics are willing to teach the general public how to use their voice properly (or do most attendees usually have serious issues)? Is it typically out-of-pocket expense?
4.
From vocal cord examinations, can one determine the age of the vocal cords? (Is there any indication of aging?) I apologize for asking so many questions, and thank you for your time, doctor.

zero-zero, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/03

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, speech therapy is currently covered by health insurance, and many hospitals and clinics offer this service.
If needed, it is best to seek consultation.
It is advisable to avoid excessively loud, numerous, high-pitched, breathy, or fast speech.
Wishing you peace and health.

Reply Date: 2020/06/03

More Info

Dear Inquirer,
Thank you for your thoughtful questions regarding vocal strain and the health of your vocal cords. It’s great to see your interest in understanding how to care for your voice, whether for singing or everyday speaking. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Vocal Strain from Involuntary Tension: It’s common for individuals to experience tension in their vocal cords, especially when trying to suppress sound. When you engage your vocal cords without allowing air to escape, you create unnecessary strain. This can lead to vocal fatigue or strain over time. Ideally, the vocal cords should vibrate freely with adequate airflow. If you find yourself feeling fatigued, it’s a sign that your vocal cords are under stress. To prevent potential damage, try to consciously relax your throat and vocal cords, allowing for natural sound production when you do choose to sing or speak.

2. Unconscious Vocal Habits: It’s understandable that melodies can trigger involuntary vocalization, especially in a relaxed setting like the shower. To combat this, consider practicing mindfulness techniques. Being aware of your body and vocal habits can help you recognize when you’re tensing up. You might also try gentle vocal exercises that promote relaxation and proper technique, which can help you feel more in control of your voice. If you notice tension building, take a moment to breathe deeply and release that tension before continuing.

3. Speech Therapy for Everyday Voice Use: Language therapy clinics often cater to a wide range of individuals, not just those with severe vocal issues. Many therapists are equipped to help people improve their vocal technique for everyday speaking, which can be beneficial for those who find talking tiring or uncomfortable. It’s advisable to contact the clinic directly to inquire about their services for general voice training. As for costs, many clinics operate on a self-pay basis, but some may accept insurance, so it’s worth checking.

4. Vocal Cord Examination and Aging: Vocal cord examinations, typically conducted by an Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) specialist, can provide insights into the health of your vocal cords. While they can assess for signs of strain, nodules, or other abnormalities, determining the "age" of vocal cords is more complex. Vocal cords can show signs of wear and tear due to overuse, dehydration, or other factors, but this doesn’t necessarily correlate with chronological age. Regular check-ups can help monitor your vocal health and catch any issues early.

In summary, it’s essential to listen to your body and recognize when your voice feels fatigued. Implementing relaxation techniques, being mindful of your vocal habits, and seeking professional guidance can significantly improve your vocal health. Remember, your voice is a valuable tool, and taking care of it will allow you to enjoy singing and speaking without discomfort.

If you have further questions or need more personalized advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional specializing in voice therapy. They can provide tailored strategies to help you maintain a healthy voice.

Best wishes for your vocal journey!

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