Singers, actors, comedians, voice-over artists, RJ-radio jockeys, readers, and music teachers are all vocal performers. Their voice is their signature, a source of creative expression, and their identity. Their voice is an important source of income and their career depends on it.
A poor performance or cancellation of a program, due to vocal injury may have devastating effects. Vocal performers are more prone to vocal injuries or voice problems as they use their voices more than others. Very often they need to speak or sing loudly or at extremes of pitch. Since the vocal demands of performers are higher, they are at a greater risk of developing a vocal injury or voice disorder. In addition to high vocal demands, traveling, back-to-back performances, smoke on stage, changing environments, allergies, acid reflux, and other medical conditions can lead to voice problems.
If a vocal performer develops a vocal injury or a voice disorder, a complete evaluation by a laryngologist is a must. In addition to this, his/her vocal demands, style and technique of singing, performance environment, future performances, and medical conditions need to be evaluated. A treatment plan is then customized for the performer for vocal rehabilitation, which may include-
Medical/surgical intervention
Voice therapy that aids in the healing of vocal injury
Appropriate exercises, for maintaining a good quality of voice and prevention of vocal injury in the future.
Voice disorders can be complicated but they can always be improved. They must be quickly diagnosed and effectively treated to restore the voice before further deterioration or permanent damage is done as losing voice is quite disabling.
Your Voice is a precious asset - you must do everything you can, to protect it.