Voice

What is a voice disorder?

Your voice is the sound produced by vibration of your vocal folds, or vocal cords, in the larynx, also known as your voice box. A voice disorder occurs when the vocal cords do not produce a clear sound.

Many voice disorders are associated with symptoms of hoarseness, raspiness, what may seem like a “weak and breathy” voice, and various asthma-like symptoms.

A child's voice disorder may significantly impair a child's ability to be heard and understood, due to the voice disorder itself or in combination with a speech and articulation difficulty.

What should I do if I think my child may have a voice disorder?

If you suspect that your child may have a voice disorder, the first step is to have the child see an otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist, or ENT) to determine if there is a medical or physical cause to the voice difficulties.

We will work with you and your child to identify possible habits that may be contributing to vocal cord irritation, and to learn about healthy ways to use your voice that will help your vocal cords heal and stay healthy. This can include:

• learning to avoid yelling
• establishing good voice habits
• learning to rest your voice
• drinking enough water to keep your vocal cords well hydrated
• avoiding foods that may cause reflux, as this can also irritate the vocal cords

How can I get help for my child?

Once your child has been evaluated by an otolaryngologist and referred for voice assessment and therapy, we will develop a treatment program specifically targeted to your child’s individual needs. For younger children, this may include helping families design home programs to develop and reinforce healthy voice habits. Most effective for older children, direct voice therapy focuses on weekly sessions designed to teach vocal techniques that promote efficient use of breath support for voicing, and reducing strain and effort with speaking.