Sam Meredith OB CH. 20 Summary

Sam
Chapter 20 Summary-When it is used too much or used incorrectly, the voice can develop certain problems that require medical attention. When the person exhibiting these symptoms is a singer it is likely that they will turn to their voice teacher for advice. Although a voice teacher should have a thorough knowledge of laryngeal anatomy and be aware of the many potential vocal pathogens they are, nonetheless, not a doctor. In all cases of vocal pathology a throat doctor should be consulted. The voice teacher, however, will obviously play a crucial role in helping the student adhere to their vocal treatment regiment and return to singing in a healthy way once the problem is resolved. Functional disorders in our voice can be a result of either hyperfunction (too much use) or hypofunction (too little use). Each of these conditions has individual symptoms that will be exhibited differently from student to student. Hyperfunction and hypofunction can both lead to various vocal pathogens. The effects of these pathogens may be alleviated in many cases through vocal rest, but unless the habits that created the problem aren't fixed the problem will likely return and may cause irreparable damage. Other than being aware of the effect that our singing and speech has on our voice, we should also be aware of other factors that can inadvertently affect the health of our voice. Certain surgeries, for example, can do just that. We also need to be sensitive about traveling and the use of alcohol and tobacco. In all cases, we should always be aware if our phonation is a healthy phonation. This can be ascertained by the level of impact that we feel singing and speaking has on our voice. If it makes our voice feel tired, it isn't healthy.
Key Concept-There is no substitute for healthy singing. If we don't sing healthily we will develop problems that will not be able to fix themselves completely until we correct our bad singing and speaking habits.
Key Terms-Nasal Resonance, Nasality, Hypofunction, Hyperfunction
Making Connections-I don't think I sing in a way that is extremely unhealthy, but I do want to be more aware of the impact that my practice and performance has on my voice's health.