The sudden death of Japanese singer-songwriter Sayuri at the age of 28 has left the music and anime communities in mourning.
The news of her passing, announced by her husband, revealed that Sayuri had been battling chronic illness for months before her death.
さユりに関するお知らせ pic.twitter.com/nmFo9YHUgJ
— 酸欠少女 さユり (@taltalasuka) September 27, 2024
In July, she had publicly taken a hiatus from her career due to functional dysphonia—a vocal disorder that severely impacts the ability to speak or sing.
What is functional dysphonia, the condition that plagued her, and what are the broader implications for individuals who rely heavily on their voices?
What is Functional Dysphonia?
Functional dysphonia is a voice disorder characterised by abnormal vocal function in the absence of any structural or neurological damage to the vocal cords.
In simpler terms, while the vocal cords appear physically healthy, they are not functioning as they should.
The result is a hoarse, weak, or strained voice, making it difficult for individuals to communicate effectively. In severe cases, as seen with Sayuri, this can lead to a complete disruption of vocal abilities, posing significant challenges for singers, teachers, public speakers, and others who depend on their voice professionally.
According to a paper published in the National Library of Medicine, functional dysphonia is caused by improper use of the vocal cords, which can be linked to vocal overuse, stress, anxiety, or poor vocal techniques.
It is a common issue among individuals in vocally demanding professions, as constant strain on the vocal cords without adequate rest can lead to dysfunction over time. Emotional factors, such as high stress and anxiety, further exacerbate the problem by contributing to muscle tension around the larynx, making it harder to produce sound effectively.
Stress and Its Role in Functional Dysphonia
Stress is a significant factor in the development of functional dysphonia. Studies have shown that stress and emotional trauma can manifest physically, particularly in muscle tension disorders.
In the case of functional dysphonia, stress causes the muscles surrounding the vocal cords to tighten, leading to difficulty in producing sound.
According to a study by researchers at the National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), psychological stress is a common underlying contributor to vocal dysfunction. This creates a vicious cycle: stress impairs vocal performance, which in turn increases stress, worsening the condition.
This is especially relevant for artists like Sayuri, whose careers are built around vocal performance. The pressure to constantly perform at a high level can create immense psychological strain, which, over time, can manifest in physical symptoms like functional dysphonia.
Management and Treatment of Functional Dysphonia
Functional dysphonia requires a multidisciplinary approach for effective treatment. Voice therapy, conducted by speech-language pathologists, is often the first step.
This therapy helps individuals retrain their vocal cords and adopt healthier vocal techniques to avoid further strain. Studies published in the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association emphasise that vocal therapy can significantly improve vocal function in patients with functional dysphonia by focusing on relaxation techniques, posture correction, and breath support.
In addition to voice therapy, managing the psychological factors contributing to the condition is critical. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and relaxation techniques can be beneficial in reducing stress and breaking the cycle of vocal strain.
In cases where vocal misuse is due to poor technique, individuals may also be taught proper vocal warm-ups, rest periods, and techniques for projecting the voice without causing harm.
A healthy voice can be maintained despite intensive use, such as for singers and public speakers.
“Maintain your voice through hydration, practicing good vocal hygiene with warm-ups and cool-downs to support vocal health, adopting a lifestyle with a healthy diet, regular exercise, and sufficient rest, and avoiding irritants like smoking, allergens, and pollutants.” shares Allison Geller, a speech-language pathologist.
Functional Dysphonia in Performers
For performers like Sayuri, the emotional toll of developing functional dysphonia can be profound.
Not only does it affect their ability to perform, but it also impacts their identity and career. Many performers report feelings of isolation, frustration, and fear when faced with a voice disorder, which can further worsen their condition. It’s not just a physical challenge—it’s an emotional and psychological one as well.
Performers, particularly singers, place immense demands on their voices, often without giving them the necessary rest and recovery. Over time, this leads to vocal fatigue and, in some cases, dysfunction.
The National Association of Teachers of Singing (NATS) advocates for performers to maintain a balance between vocal use and rest, incorporating regular voice care routines and mental health support to prevent long-term damage.
Conclusion
Sayuri’s death at just 28 years old is a heartbreaking reminder of how debilitating functional dysphonia can be, particularly for individuals whose lives are intertwined with their voice.
Her battle with this condition highlights the importance of understanding the physical and emotional toll it can take. While functional dysphonia is treatable, it requires early intervention, a multidisciplinary approach, and an understanding of the complex relationship between stress, mental health, and vocal performance.
For those in vocally demanding professions, prevention and management of voice disorders are crucial.
By recognising the signs of functional dysphonia early and seeking appropriate treatment, individuals can protect their vocal health and avoid the emotional and professional consequences that may arise from untreated voice disorders.
Read also: Dragon Ball Creator Akira Toriyama Passes From Acute Subdural Haematoma
