Laryngology/Phonosurgery/Speech Evaluation
Effects on vocal quality following decreased fluid intake
Kara Ayala*, Rick Davis, Jesus Tanguma
*Corresponding author: Kara Ayala
Communication Sciences and Disorders, University of Texas-Pan American, Edinburg, TX, USA
F1000Posters 2012, 3: 780 (poster) [English]
Poster [835.94 KB] | Recommended by F1000Prime
Presented at
The Voice Foundation's 41st Annual Symposium: Care of the Professional Voice 2012,
30 May - 3 Jun 2012, SLP-P25
Recommendations for increasing fluid intake have long been standard protocol in the management of voice disorders, however, this claim has not been substantiated in the literature.This study examined the effects of decreased hydration status on several vocal parameters during a period of no-fluid intake. A relatively large group of 40 healthy subjects was examined, 20 males and 20 females, trained singers and non-singers with a control group. Subjects participated in two identical vocal assessments, the first early in the morning and the second at least six hours later.
Results indicated numerous significant differences between the morning and afternoon assessments, particularly in male non-singers. Jitter percent, fundamental frequency, and self- and clinician-generated ratings of effort increased significantly. These changes in vocal parameters are consistent with decreased vocal cord flexibility and/or decreased mass. This may be a result of decreased moisture within the vocal folds over six-to-eight hours of ‘no hydration’.
Potential effects of reduced hydration levels in vocal fold mucosa, voice quality, and sex differences in patients and laypersons should be examined. Clinical implications with respect to vocal therapists and coaches should also be further examined.
No relevant competing interests disclosed.
Texas Speech-Language Hearing Association, NA (Lear Ashmore Grant)
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