Risk Factors Contributing To Voice Disorders

A voice disorder refers to any kind of condition or problem wherein the quality, loudness, or pitch of an individual's voice does not accurately match with their age, cultural background, and gender. Everything from cancerous growths to nerve issues could bring about a voice disorder. Among the most common types of voice disorders include vocal cord paralysis, spasmodic dysphonia, and laryngitis, the latter of which occurs when the vocal cords become swollen. While individuals should be able to notice if the general aspects of their voice are different than usual, some of the ways in which one's voice could change include their voice being too low or high in pitch, being weak and breathy, being hoarse, or having a quivering sound to it. There are a variety of risk factors that can contribute to the development of a voice disorder, many of which adversely affect the vocal cords. Understanding what these risk factors are may help individuals prevent future voice disorders.

Colds And Upper Respiratory Infections

Among the most common risk factors that contribute to voice disorders are colds and upper respiratory infections. These viral infections directly cause issues with the upper respiratory system, which can cause individuals to experience a voice disorder. Both of these infections are very common and should resolve themselves within a couple of weeks. However, it's possible for the symptoms of these infections to cause additional complications such as a voice disorder. When a patient suffers from a cold or an upper respiratory infection, some of the components within the upper airways will become inflamed, which can include the larynx and trachea. The larynx is positioned right at the top of the trachea and consists of the vocal cords. When this area becomes inflamed and swollen, it's possible the patient's vocal cords will be damaged, which can result in a voice disorder. The inflammation of the larynx is referred to as laryngitis. Unless the infection patients suffer from is severe, this inflammation and swelling should dissipate within a few weeks, which is when their voice should go back to normal.

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