The role of allergic rhinitis for professional voice users

Abstract

Professional voice users comprise 25-35% of the US working population, and their voice problems may interfere with job performance and impact costs for both employers and employees. Voice users can be grouped into four categories according to their dependence on their voice: Elite vocal performers (Level 1) always require maximum vocal performance and need superior voice quality, pitch, range, and volume; most professional singers and actors are part of this group. For professional voice users (Level 2), the voice is an essential part of their work life. They mainly need vocal endurance and stamina over prolonged periods, and voice quality is a secondary concern for them; teachers, lecturers, customer service workers, and fitness instructors are in this group. Nonvocal professional voice users (Level 3) would be able to perform their job with mild dysphonia, but they would be unable to fulfill their professional commitments if they had moderate or severe dysphonia; even if they could accomplish their work-related tasks, they would lack the vocal quality needed for their professional image. Lawyers, doctors, and managers are the main members of this group. Nonvocal nonprofessional voice users (Level 4) are the remaining individuals, who do not rely on their voice for their occupation. In this chapter, "professional voice user" refers to Levels 1-2. In this chapter, the role of allergic rhinitis for professional voice users is presented.