Dysphonia and Vocal Tract Discomfort While Working From Home During COVID-19

Journal of Voice : Official Journal of the Voice Foundation
Ciarán Kenny

Abstract

During COVID-19, government measures to prevent disease spread included advice to work from home. In addition to occupational risk factors, the increased use of telecommunication and changed work environment may contribute to voice and vocal tract discomfort (VTD). This study established the prevalence, incidence, characteristics and impact of self-perceived dysphonia and VTD in those working from home during COVID-19. A cross-sectional, observational study using an online survey recruited 1575 participants. It captured information about dysphonia and VTD presence, onset, and severity. Those with dysphonia completed the voice-related quality of life to measure impact. Regression analyses identified risk factors for voice and vocal tract problems. Dysphonia and VTD prevalence rates were 33% and 68%, respectively, incidences were 28% and 50%. Perceived dysphonia severity was mild in 72% of cases. Dry throat was the most common VTD symptom at 66%. Mean voice-related quality of life score was 82.4 (standard deviation ± 13.2). Raising or straining the voice while working predicted new onset dysphonia and VTD. Increasing telecommunication use was associated with worse dysphonia and VTD onset. Those working from home have seen a rise ...Continue Reading

Citations

Jun 16, 2021·Journal of Voice : Official Journal of the Voice Foundation·Patrícia Brianne da Costa PenhaMaria Fabiana Bonfim de Lima Silva
Aug 12, 2021·Logopedics, Phoniatrics, Vocology·Larissa Thaís Donalonso SiqueiraVanessa Veis Ribeiro

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