Work-Related Voice Disorders: Causes, Manifestations, and Evidence-Based Interventions

Abstract

Background: Occupational voice disorders represent a major health problem among professional voice users, including teachers, singers, actors, and other vocally demanding occupations. Prolonged or improper use of the voice, combined with environmental and psychological stressors, can lead to both functional and organic laryngeal pathologies that significantly impair communication and professional performance.

Objective: The purpose of this paper is to review the etiological factors, clinical presentation, and management strategies of occupational voice disorders, with an emphasis on functional dysphonia, muscle tension dysphonia, and benign organic lesions, including nodules, polyps, Reinke's edema, cysts, and granulomas.

Methods: A review of the literature was performed on the basis of recent studies dealing with occupational voice pathologies, their risk factors, and therapeutic approaches. Major occupational categories were reviewed according to voice load, environmental exposure, and ergonomic stressors. Pathophysiology, symptoms, and evidence-based management options were summarized from up-to-date scientific references.

Results: The results highlighted that occupational dysphonia has a multifactorial origin: high vocal load, poor acoustic conditions, psychological stress, and lack of vocal hygiene. Among functional voice disorders, muscle tension dysphonia is quite common among professional speakers and teachers. Organic lesions such as nodules and polyps commonly arise from chronic phonotrauma. Management continues to focus on voice therapy and vocal hygiene education, while surgical intervention is reserved for persistent organic lesions.

Conclusion: The disorders of the occupational voice are preventable and manageable. Preservation of voice and prolongation of the professional career depend on early identification, proper vocal technique, ergonomic modification, and multidisciplinary intervention that includes medical, psychological, and speech-therapy support.