Morgan Wallen has to go on a doctor-ordered six-week vocal rest because he damaged his voice. He went on social media and explained that he pushed his voice too much during his shows and now doctors say that if he doesn’t heal it properly, his vocal cords will be permanently damaged.

Morgan explained to us that he has what’s called “Vocal Fold Trauma.” What is vocal fold trauma? Is it treatable? What’s the cause of it? We will break it down here!

Morgan Wallen’s Vocal Fold Trauma: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

Vocal fold trauma refers to any injury or damage to the vocal folds, which are also known as the vocal cords. The vocal folds are located in the larynx, or voice box, and they are responsible for producing sound and speech. When the vocal folds are injured, it can cause significant problems with speaking and singing.

Causes of Vocal Fold Trauma

There are several possible causes of vocal fold trauma, including:

1. Overuse or misuse of the voice: This is one of the most common causes of vocal fold trauma. If you use your voice excessively, or if you use it incorrectly (such as shouting or screaming), it can cause damage to the vocal folds over time. Singers who use their voices experience this more often than non-singers. The more they sing, the more they could damage their voices.
2. Infections: Certain infections, such as laryngitis or pharyngitis, can cause inflammation and swelling of the vocal folds, which can lead to trauma. If a singer sings a set while having a cold, it can actually damage the vocal chords even more. That’s why it’s important for singer not to get sick while on tour.
3. Acid reflux: Acid reflux is a condition in which stomach acid backs up into the esophagus and throat. The acid can irritate and damage the vocal folds over time. Singers should avoid foods that have high acidity like tomatoes, limes, potato chips, fatty meats, cheese and more.
4. Trauma to the neck or throat: Any trauma to the neck or throat, such as a car accident or a blow to the neck, can cause damage to the vocal folds.

Symptoms of Vocal Fold Trauma And What Morgan Is Probably Feeling Right Now

The symptoms of vocal fold trauma can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Some common symptoms include:

1. Hoarseness or raspiness in the voice
2. Difficulty speaking or singing
3. Pain or discomfort in the throat
4. Loss of vocal range or control
5. Difficulty swallowing
6. Coughing or clearing the throat frequently
7. Breathing difficulties

(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images for ACM)

Treatment for Vocal Fold Trauma

The treatment for vocal fold trauma depends on the severity and underlying cause of the injury. Some possible treatment options for Morgan Wallen include:

1. Voice rest: In cases of mild vocal fold trauma, simply resting the voice for a period of time may be enough to allow the vocal folds to heal. That’s what Morgan’s doctor ordered. We hope Morgan follows it!
2. Medications: If the vocal fold trauma is caused by an infection or acid reflux, medications may be prescribed to help reduce inflammation and promote healing. Unsure if Morgan is taking any medication, but it can surely help with recovery.
3. Speech therapy: Speech therapy can be helpful in cases of vocal fold trauma caused by overuse or misuse of the voice. A speech therapist can teach you techniques for using your voice more effectively and reducing strain on the vocal folds.
4. Surgery: In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair damage to the vocal folds. This may involve removing scar tissue or repairing a tear in the vocal fold. Let’s hope Morgan doesn’t need this!

(Photo by Matt Winkelmeyer/Getty Images for MRC)

Preventing Vocal Fold Trauma

There are several things Morgan Wallen can do to prevent vocal fold trauma, including:

1. Avoiding smoking or exposure to secondhand smoke
2. Drinking plenty of water to keep the vocal folds hydrated
3. Avoiding excessive use of the voice, particularly shouting or screaming
4. Using good vocal technique when speaking or singing
5. Treating any underlying medical conditions, such as acid reflux or allergies, that can irritate the vocal folds