Bogart–Bacall syndrome

Bogart–Bacall syndrome (BBS) is a voice disorder that is caused by abuse or overuse of the vocal cords.

People who speak or sing outside their normal vocal range can develop BBS; symptoms are chiefly an unnaturally deep or rough voice, or dysphonia, and vocal fatigue.[1] The people most commonly afflicted are those who speak in a low-pitched voice, particularly if they have poor breath and vocal control. The syndrome can affect both men and women.[2]

In 1988 an article was published, describing a discrete type of vocal dysfunction which results in men sounding like Humphrey Bogart and women sounding like Lauren Bacall.[3] BBS is now the medical term for an ongoing hoarseness that often afflicts actors, singers or TV/radio voice workers who routinely speak in a very low pitch.[4]

Treatment usually involves voice therapy by a speech language pathologist.[5]

References

  1. "RightDiagnosis: BBS Symptoms". Retrieved 2011-09-03.
  2. "RightDiagnosis: Bogart-Bacall syndrome.". Retrieved 2011-09-03.
  3. Koufman, James A.; Blalock, P. David (May 1988). "Vocal fatigue and dysphonia in the professional voice user: Bogart-bacall syndrome". The Laryngoscope. 98 (5): 493–498. doi:10.1288/00005537-198805000-00003.
  4. "Natural Health Care - Singers and Musicians". Retrieved 2011-09-03.
  5. "RightDiagnosis: BBS Treatment". Retrieved 2011-09-03.
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