Voice problems

[Scarlett]

I have had voice problems since January- my throat feels tense, I get aching in my throat and round the back and sides of my head, and my jaw feels like it can't relax. when I try and speak it is low and gravelly, but if I persevere, it smooths out but I later pay for it the next day- it's then REALLY low and gravelly. I have been to an ENT specialist who just said my vocal cords looked fine, but he ignored a white patch that I have at the back of my mouth, right at the back of my right gum. I took oral thrush drops for it but it's still there. I've no idea if this is linked to my voice. I'm a singing teacher which makes it so much worse, as I HAVE to sing and speak every day! Do you think the Alexander technique might help my problem, if maybe tension is causing it? Any ideas gratefully received!

[sqad617]

E.N.T Consultant has cleared your vocal cords....good. The white patch at the back of your mouth would not account for your symptoms. Gravelly voice might require thyroid tests to exclude hypothyroidism. Now, it looks as though it is tension and the Alexander Technique, in my opinion, would be helpful.

[Velvetee]

I really think you should go back to your doctor. White patches in the oral area occassionally signify something more sinister.

A dentist may also be able to advise you and suggest what this white patch may be. Do you smoke?

[LoftyLottie]

Sounds very much like tension. I have very similar symptoms at the moment ( accompanied by a dry tickly) cough). I am also experiencing jaw pain and have actually got a sore mouth from clenching my teeth so hard that I have bitten into my top gum. I have been through a very tough couple of years. Thinking about it makes it worse for me. Are you getting enough relaxation?

If the ENT specialist ignored the white patch then it is probably because it is nothing to worry about. They would pick up on anything sinister in the mouth as part of the examination of your throat. However, a trip to the dentist, as velvetee says, would help to put your mind at rest on this.

[Scarlett]

Hi there, no I don't smoke!! Thanks for your replies though- I will see the ENT again. I can't believe he didn't take a biopsy of the white patch or a swab of saliva to at least test for infection! It could be thyroid, couldn't it, as it is round the throat area- why do we have to diagnose ourselves these days?!