FAST FACT:

t's not just professional singers who experience voice problems. A wide range of conditions exist that can affect anyone's voice. And although most people don't think about it, our voice is a major part of our identity, and when it's changing or diminishing, emotional problems (depression or low-self-esteem) can result.

Among the many causes of voice problems:

Weakened muscles. Many seniors report their voice has become weaker or changed pitch and sounds different than it has their entire life. This is not from aging alone, but because the vocal cord muscles have become weaker. A six- to 12-week regimen of voice-strengthening exercises is effective in most cases.
Stomach reflux. Acid bubbling up from the stomach into the throat is known as LPR, or laryngopharyngeal reflux disease. This may or may not be associated with the better-known GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). Acid and/or acid vapor in the throat can trigger throat symptoms and voice changes. Most patients with this problem can be successfully treated with medication.
Nodules and polyps. Vocal cord nodules and polyps are noncancerous growths that produce hoarseness. Rest, voice therapy or surgery can correct these problems.
Cancer. Throat cancer often produces symptoms including a hoarse, raspy or rough voice - along with a chronic cough. If caught early, the cure rate is more than 90 percent. Smokers should be on the alert for these symptoms, as they have a much higher rate of throat, head and neck cancer.
Paralysis. It's rare, but the vocal cords can become paralyzed after a viral infection, as an after-effect of surgery, or for no obvious reason at all. Paralyzed vocal cords make the voice soft and breathy. It often goes away on its own, but also can be treated with a variety of chemical based fillers injected into the vocal cords (it's similar to the fillers that dermatologists use to plump up facial wrinkles). Patients with permanent paralysis are often treated with surgically placed implants.

To Boost Your Vocal Power

To avoid or minimize the effects of voice disorders, follow these steps:

Schedule in regular breaks if you use your voice a great deal.
Learn positive speaking habits. Use good posture when on the phone to avoid strain on your neck and throat. Don't cradle the phone in the crook of your neck.
Drink water. Water moistens the vocal cords, and it helps relax the throat muscles.
Avoid coughing and throat clearing as much as possible. A sip of water may work better at soothing your throat.
Avoid speaking when your voice is hoarse or strained. Even whispering is irritating to the vocal cords; if need be, use a pen and paper to communicate.
Don't yell over loud noises. If you need to get someone's attention, use a bell or whistle instead of shouting.

If you're having voice problems or suspect you have a voice disorder, consult a voice specialist, or otolaryngologist. He or she can evaluate your voice and speaking patterns, and if necessary, refer you to a voice therapy program.

any so-called "alternative" therapies are now used regularly in U.S. hospitals and clinics. After extensive research, the Mayo Clinic has released a list of what it considers the 10 best alternative therapies... (continued)

f your child complains his legs hurt, especially around the knees and especially at night, then odds are he’s experiencing. .. (continued)

© Your HealthStyle, 1998-2009.