We’re sure that many of the top celebrity singers of today know exactly what to do to keep their vocal cords in perfect health. Most of us don’t sing for a living or pay so much attention to our voices, although we should.
We all are constantly talking to communicate, so let’s each look at a few ways in which we can alter our every day habits to positively impact our vocal cords.
The Power Of Our Voices
We sometimes use our eyes or facial expressions to communicate with others about how we feel or think, but it’s our voice that really does the work. Imagine not being able to speak for an entire day and how frustrating that would be.
So yes, our vocal health is important.
Keep Your Vocal Cords Hydrated
Even thought it seems impossible, drink 6 – 8 glasses of water each day. Our vocal cords need a thin mucus to remain healthy. Consuming watery fruits like pears, apples, watermelon and grapes can also help.
At the same time, avoid alcohol and caffeine since they tend to do the opposite. These kinds of beverages not only dry out our vocal cords, but alcohol can also irritate the mucous membranes that line the throat.
Pretend You Are In A Library
Shouting, yelling, or trying to be heard in a crowded venue is a big no-no for your voice. It strains those vocal cords unnecessarily and should always be avoided.
Watch Your Meds
Many medications for cold, allergy, and sinus problems can lead to a dry throat so be sure to drink additional water to counteract these likely side effects.
Be Judicious With Your Voice
“Silence is golden,” may apply here. There are times you should rest your voice, especially if you need to speak as part of your job. Teachers, professional speakers, lawyers, and customer service reps are just a few of those on this list.
Constantly clearing your throat can also irritate your vocal cords. Try your best to break this habit, and to save your voice for when you need it most.
Avoid Smoking
Better yet, don’t smoke at all, and try to avoid secondhand smoke. Smoking dries out the larynx and can cause cancer.
Use A Humidifier
A humidifier serves many purposes for our nose, throat, and respiratory system. 30% humidity is recommended to keep our vocal cords and larynx moist, especially for those living in cold, dry climates.
Look Forward When You Speak
Note how many people cradle their phones between their head and shoulders. Many assume that this will only put strain on our neck muscles, but it can also harm your voice.
Instead, when on the phone, look forward like the person you are talking to is standing right in front of you. This helps us breathe properly and open up our vocal cords.
Avoid Spicy Foods
This may seem kind of strange, but spicy foods can lead to gastrointestinal reflux disease (GERD), causing stomach acid to back up into the throat and esophagus. This frequent “stomach acid bath” is not good for vocal health. See a specialist if you notice acid reflux occurring more and more frequently over time.
When you are ill or fatigued, rest. If your voice has become hoarse for longer than two weeks due to an upper respiratory infection, seek treatment from an ENT doctor.
Request a Vocal Consultation
Avoid vocal health problems by paying attention to your symptoms, and by trying to lessen the potential for such damage to occur in the first place. See a specialist from Coastal Ear, Nose & Throat if your voice has become weak or you find it difficult to speak.