University of Pittsburgh Voice Center

Frequently asked questions regarding voice problems.

(1) Does heartburn/stomach acid affect my voice?

Yes. Stomach acid can pass up to the throat and irritate the larynx(voice box) and negatively effect voice quality. This is gastro esophageal reflux extending to the larynx, reflux laryngitis . This problem can frequently be prevented by changes in the timing, type and amount of food one eats. Also, the avoidance of alcohol, mint and caffeine will prevent reflux laryngitis.

(2) What are singer's nodes?

Singer's nodes are called vocal nodules and they are small calluses of the vocal cords. They occur in both boys and girls and predominately in women. Nodules come from abuse to the vocal cords associated with yelling, screaming or an unnatural pitch or singing style. Vocal nodules are frequently found in cheerleaders, aerobic instructors, and rarely in librarians! Vocal nodules can be treated quite easily and successfully with voice therapy (see question 4). This condition rarely requires surgery!

(3) I have heard that drinking water is good for my voice, is this true? And how much?

Yes. The vocal cords(also called folds) vibrate against each other 100-400 times per second and require constant lubrication. Drinking 6-8 glasses of water and avoiding caffeinated drinks(cola, tea and coffee) is recommended for the "vocal lubrication." We frequently tell our singers to "Pee Pale and Sing Clear."

(4) What is voice therapy?

Voice therapy is used to treat many voice problems and consists of voice education, vocal hygiene (healthy uses of our voice) and instruction in proper voice technique. This often involves the proper use of your breathing muscles for the best breath control and voice use. Voice therapy is typically done 1-2 times per week for a total of 10 sessions.

(5) Does smoking affect my voice?

Yes. Smoking and exposure to smoke irritates and dries the lining of the voice box. This decreases voice quality, promotes reflux laryngitis and increases the need for throat clearing. Smoking also destroys lung function and without good lung power singing is impossible.

(6) What can be done for a paralyzed vocal cord?

There are several treatments for a paralyzed vocal cord. and frequently they can result in the restoration of near-normal speaking voice quality. Voice therapy is helpful in the treatment of a paralyzed vocal cord to maximize the voice and to compensate for the immobile vocal cord. Most frequently a surgery to push the paralyzed vocal cord to the midline is done in conjunction with voice therapy. This type of surgery is usually done without putting the patient "asleep" and is done as a day surgery, going home the same day of surgery.

(7) My voice is weak, can something be done to make it stronger?

Yes. A weak voice and a voice that tires easily (vocal fatigue) can be caused from many things, i.e.vocal fold bowing. Most frequently a weak voice can be strengthened with voice therapy. Alternaltively, surgery on the vocal cords to make them stronger (vocal fold augmentation) can be done to correct a weak voice or a voice that tires easily.

Audible Clues for Potential Vocal Problems

Things Which Can Cause Problems in the Larynx