Meet the Experts

Dr. Richard Vivero

Otolaryngologist with Baptist Health South Florida

Videos

Treating Voice Disorders

Dr. Richard Vivero, Otolaryngologist with Baptist Health South Florida, says voice is a signature, and oftentimes it is undervalued although it is very important to our presence. He also explains if people are having trouble with their voices they should visit an ENT doctor (otorhinolaryngology) and direct the patient to the proper care, whether it is medicine, surgery or therapy.

Risk Factors of Voice Disorders

Upper respiratory infections, inflammation caused by gastroesophageal reflux, vocal misuse and overuse, growths on the vocal folds, cancer of the larynx, and neurological diseases are some of the risk factors of voice disorders. Dr. Richard Vivero, Otolaryngologist with Baptist Health South Florida, says growths on the vocal folds and cancer prevent the vocal cords from vibrating normally.

Anatomy of the Vocal Cords

Dr. Richard Vivero, Otolaryngologist with Baptist Health South Florida, explains the vocal cords are made of three layers. "At the base is a large muscle called the thyroarytenoid that allows them to open and close." He also says above it is the superficial inappropriate layer that gives the vocal cords softness, and then there is an epithelium, which is a type of tissue, like a skin, and that increases the risk for cancer later when you have been smoking.

Signs of Voice Problems

You might have a voice problem if your voice has become hoarse or raspy, if you have lost your ability to hit some high notes when singing, or if it has become an effort to talk. Dr. Richard Vivero, Otolaryngologist with Baptist Health South Florida, explains no one should ever have pain, whether you are a singer or a regular voice user. "If you're having pain, we do identify if something is growing there or if you're over using the muscles."

Vocal Cords and Sound Production

Dr. Richard Vivero, Otolaryngologist with Baptist Health South Florida, explains a woman's voice has double the frequency of a man's voice, and that is because of the length of the vocal cords and how much they vibrate. He also says the way the sound resonates through your throat, nose and mouth is what makes you you. He points out with puberty for a woman the vocal cords change and becomes a little bit deeper, but for men it becomes much deeper.

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