Tara interviews Dr. David Opperman, laryngologist from the Colorado Voice Clinic. He chats about when it’s time to see a voice doctor, how they can find the vocal issues and the types of treatment that are available. It’s a discussion that you won’t want to miss if you are a singer!
(5:15) The difference between an ENT (otolaryngologist) and a laryngologist (a true voice specialist)
(7:35) Dr. Opperman explains what laryngitis is and how we can become hoarse as singers.
(8:35) If hoarseness is happening more than 10 days, it is a good idea to have your voice checked.
(10:00) Dr. Opperman talks about what kinds of vocal issues he sees that are the most common. Voice overuse is one of the big ones.
(12:30) Assessing a vocal issue can be from hearing the voice and also doing a video stroboscopy
(15:01) Injuries to the voice can happen in many ways. Often it can start in the speaking voice.
(17:01) Stress environment factors and lack of hydration can cause vocal issues too.
(18:25) Injections can help spasmodic dysphonia. It’s a disease that is still hard to figure out.
(19:30) Injections can be used for things like Parkinson’s Disease and Spasmodic Dysphonia.
(20:35) Nodules—how they form and how they are treated. Vocal therapy, botox, vocal rest and hydration can all help.
(22:19) Surgery can benefit people when the voice issue necessitates help that only removal of something can do.
(22:35) Transition using therapy after surgery or diagnosis is often administered. Speech therapy can be one aspect of that transition.
(24:17) Also looking at bad habits and adjusting them can help.
(25:20) If you have pain while singing, stop and get it checked out!
(26:22) Take the time to identify and observe your voice and get help sooner than later.
(27:33) Is it wise to do a vocal checkup at the voice doctor annually or at least to get a baseline?
(28:50) Dr. Opperman can consult over the phone to help you find a way to get your issues diagnosed. If he can’t get you into his clinic, he will try to find help with a laryngologist near you.
To contact Dr. Opperman, go to his website: www.coloradovoiceclinic.com
Phone: 1-303-844-3000
Also, there is the Academy of Otolaryngologists where you can get a list of physicians around the country.
For more discussion and and keeping the conversation going, please feel free to join my new FACEBOOK group:
The Engaging Voice Singers (community)
oice Singers (community)
Here is the link: https://www.facebook.com/groups/275720043147345/
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