I’ve lost my voice completely
In many cases of aphonia, the vocal cords are not damaged or physically impaired. However, the voice loss typically follows a period of sickness. Although the vocal cords look normal after the sickness has passed, the voice doesn’t return as before or at all. This can also happen after voice surgery e.g. to remove a polyp. Typically, the vocal cords appear normal at the post surgery ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) check-up but the voice is absent. (For more information about accessing an assessment of your larynx and vocal cords with an ENT, please see the information below).
One of the most anxiety inducing aspects of total voice loss is the feeling of isolation. One of the questions I’m most often asked is: “have you ever seen this happen to anyone else?” Voice loss can be panic inducing for the individual.
Rest assured that experienced voice specialist SLTs will be familiar with working with aphonia. With the right support and treatment, voice restoration to the full level possible for each respective individual is a very achievable outcome.
For some, voice rehabilitation can be quick – within two sessions. For others, more sessions will be required. The clinician will be able to guide you further about this at your first appointment.
