Is Vocal Fry Bad for You?
The topic of vocal fry in young women is important and it does not seem to be going away. Regularly, a study concludes that speaking in vocal fry affects a…
Figure: Videostroboscopy image demonstrating left vocal cord paralysis.
What is Vocal Cord Paralysis?
Vocal cord paralysis (VCP), also known as vocal fold paralysis, refers to vocal cord immobility due to dysfunction of the vocal nerves. The vocal cords are V-shaped structures located inside…
Micah Johnson’s Idol Audition – Singers and Tonsillectomy
Micah Johnson stunned a nation when he auditioned for American Idol. But it wasn't simply his vocals that engaged the audience; it was his back story. According to Johnson,…
The patient’s septum is deviated to her left side (towards the right of the picture).
Septoplasty and the Voice
Does Septum Surgery Change Your Voice? Question: I have had difficulty breathing through my nose for many years. I went to an ENT who told me that my septum…
Singers and Steroids: “The Magic Pill”
I’d known most singers see steroids as “magic pills” from my years of caring for professional voice users. However, I only realized how prevalent the problem was when a…
The Effects of Aspirin (NSAIDs) on the Voice
Is it dangerous to take Advil or Motrin when my voice hurts? Question: I sing five nights a week at a lounge, which is very vocally demanding. After the first…
Diagnosis of Vocal Problems
Do I need anything more than a scope through my nose to figure out my voice problem? Question: I recently went to an ENT because I was hoarse. He…
Bulimia and the Voice: Words from Lady Gaga
When asked how she overcame bulimia, she said "It made my voice bad. So I had to stop. The acid on your vocal chords [sic]-- it's very bad.” I…