Phonasthenia

Phonasthenia

 

a functional impairment of phonation.

Phonasthenia is caused by excessive or incorrect use of the voice and occurs primarily in singers, actors, and teachers. Unlike singers’ nodes (symmetrical nodules of connective tissue and epithelium located on the vocal cords), which are also accompanied by impairment of phonation, phonasthenia is not marked by visible organic changes in the vocal apparatus. In phonasthenia the voice becomes easily fatigued; it may crack or become hoarse and may sometimes disappear completely.

If sufficient rest is provided, voice function is usually restored without medical treatment. Physical therapy is used in case of persistent phonasthenia. The condition can be prevented by proper use of the voice.