Protect Your Voice

If you rely on your voice throughout your day (like most people), you cannot risk losing it. Professions like teaching, singing and broadcasting often have a higher rate of voice disorders because of misuse. Even so, about 1 in 3 people will experience hoarseness of their voice at one time or another. Losing your voice during cold season while suffering with the common cold happens to many adults and children. However, if the hoarseness lasts more than two weeks, it may mean you need some additional testing from a voice specialist such as a speech pathologist or an otolaryngologist (ENT). Most voice disorders are preventable. Here are the top the four things I try to tell clients to do to reduce vocal strain.

1. Hydrate- drinking lots of caffeine, or not drinking enough water will dehydrate you over time. Your vocal chord work best if you keep them hydrated. You can do this by drinking water and other  decaffeinated drinks. This sounds simple but can be hard on the go. Bringing a bottle of water is always a start.

2. Change Proximity- If you are across a room and need to talk with someone, move closer so you do not have to yell. Your vocal chords can then work at volume they are used to without strain.

3. Rest-You and your vocal chords need enough rest. Resting your voice means giving it time away from being used for more than 10 minutes at a time (I also need work with is as like most speech therapists, I like to talk).

     

4. Amplify When Needed- If you have to talk to a crowd or a group many days a week like many actors, teachers, or public speakers do, you may need to use a microphone or FM system.