Abstract
ObjectiveDuring 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.MethodsA 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.ResultsDysphonia 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.ConclusionThose working from home have seen a rise in dysphonia and VTD, which were associated with communication modality and change in environment. If home offices become the ‘new normal’ post-COVID, workplaces should consider voice training for employees to limit potential difficulties.
Highlights
The global COVID-19 pandemic caused many countries to adopt measures to “flatten the curve”, primarily through the introduction of social or physical distancing
This could indicate that the vocal tract discomfort (VTD) prevalence in this study is perhaps within expectations, but the incidence rate once again speaks to a strong association with the lockdown period
Well-designed experimental studies comparing office and home workers, and comparing face-to-face versus telecommunication would be useful, if a random sampling technique could be employed. Dysphonia prevalence in those working from home appears higher than previously reported values for the general population
Summary
The global COVID-19 pandemic caused many countries to adopt measures to “flatten the curve”, primarily through the introduction of social or physical distancing. In the Republic of Ireland, significant movement restrictions (informally called lockdown) were implemented on March 27, 2020. These restrictions included a ban on travelling to work, unless that work was an essential service. This requirement saw many individuals forced to work from home. Change of workplace venue necessitated hasty construction of home office spaces. It saw increased use of telecommunication, with many individuals adopting video calling technologies
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
