[Change of vocal capacity due to different vocal loading tests]

Vocal loading tests are an important element in the evaluation of vocal function. In Germany mostly tests with changes of loading intensity between 75 and 80 dB(A) or tests with continuous intensity of 80 dB(C) are used.

17 subjects with healthy vocal function were analyzed in 3 test conditions (1. continuous loading of 80 dB(A), 2. loading with changes of intensity between 75 and 80 dB(A) and 3. without loading for 10 min) concerning DSI and visual analog scale in their time course. The measurements were performed pre, directly after and 20, 40 and 60 min after the loading. The loading test was performed using the German text “Das tapfere Schneiderlein”.

The data show that the deviation and percentages of lower values of the intended dB loading were much greater for the test with changes of intensity compared to the test with continuous loading. There were no significant differences of the DSI between both loading conditions. After the loading there was a drop of the DSI followed by a short recovery and a drop after 60 min.

The loading test with continuous intensity appears more stable for healthy subjects and can be fulfilled more easily. Both tests show comparable courses concerning the DSI after the loading tests.