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- Title
VOICE AS A TOOL FOR WORK. WHAT HAPPENS WHEN IT “BREAKS”? A CASE REPORT OF AN ELITE VOCAL PROFESSIONAL.
- Authors
Marković, Stela; Bošnjak, Jelena; Jakšić, Ozana; Šimić, Ivana
- Abstract
Background: Elite vocal performers face significant consequences for their career and well-being due to even minor vocal difficulties, highlighting the importance of maintaining vocal health and seeking appropriate treatment. Vocal nodules, small growths resulting from vocal strain and overuse, are common among professional voice users such as opera singers. These nodules can interfere with clear and powerful singing, causing hoarseness, roughness, and vocal fatigue, affecting an opera singer’s ability to perform and maintain a consistent schedule. The Voice Handicap Indeks(VHI) is an important tool for evaluating the impact of voice disorders on patients’ quality of life. Aim: The aim of this report is to highlight the importance of conservative management in elite vocal professionals. Case Report: A female opera singer(soprano) presented with vocal nodules and laryngopharyngeal reflux resulting in significant deterioration of her voice over the past two months and it has become impossible for her to perform shows. The patient reported feeling neck muscle tension and a lump in her throat, and also experienced great vocal effort after prolonged speaking. The patient does not smoke. She was assessed using a digital fiber stroboscope which revealed hard vocal nodules on a relatively wide base with moderate hyperemia of the interaritenoid and arytenoid mucosa. Objective voice analysis showed pathological values for FO, Jitter, Shimmer, and intensity, indicating moderate to severe hoarseness. Her VHI score was 65 which is considered a severe handicap. The patient received vocal hygiene recommendations, information on vocal issues, and was advised to pursue vocal treatment rather than surgery due to her profession. Conclusion: Voice therapy for opera singers may involve improving vocal technique through breath support, vocal placement, and resonance. Proper treatment and vocal hygiene can help most opera singers with vocal nodules regain their full singing potential.
- Subjects
HYGIENE; OPERA singers; VOICE analysis; WOMEN singers; SINGING instruction; NECK muscles; MINORS
- Publication
Lijecnicki Vjesnik, 2023, Vol 145, p94
- ISSN
0024-3477
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.26800/LV-145-supl3-4