Aim: This article aims to identify the unique requirements in evaluating and treating professional voice users with voice complaints.
Background: Professional or occupational voice users make up a large portion of a laryngological caseload. These individuals, including teachers, performers, salespeople, etc., rely on proper vocal function every day to carry out the demands of their job. As a result, these patients may require a more comprehensive clinical evaluation and intervention given the nature of their careers.
Patient care/Techniques: Otolaryngologists should consider the use of videolaryngostroboscopy to assess the subtleties of vocal fold function and vibration. Often, close collaboration with a speech pathologist is most beneficial to these patients to improve the overall health and functioning of the voice and promote longevity of proper voice use. A variety of vocal pathologies are seen in the professional voice population, including laryngitis, benign vocal fold lesions, and functional disorders such as muscle tension dysphonia. Management and treatment will depend not only on the findings from the evaluation, but also access to a collaborative voice team and the patient's wishes related to their profession. Voice rest is generally only implemented in specific cases where avoiding vocal fold collision is crucial to healing. Voice therapy is often warranted both for rehabilitation and learning appropriate compensatory strategies and healthier voicing behaviors. Depending on the evaluation findings and the comfort level of the provider, medication or surgical intervention may be most appropriate for certain patients.
Clinical significance/Conclusion: Professional voice users are frequently seen by otolaryngologists due to the essential role of their voices and the high demands often required. Providers should be knowledgeable in the assessment and treatment of voice disorders. If necessary, providers should establish a voice care team in the area that can appropriately assist these patients.
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