Voice Care: Tips For Maintaining A Healthy Throat And Vocal Cords – Aum Ent Clinic

Our ability to speak is a marvel of human biology. It involves various key anatomical structures working in tandem with each other.  Understanding all the factors that affect the voice is essential, especially for those in professions that are heavily reliant on vocal use, such as teachers, singers, voice-over artists, public speakers, and customer service representatives.

 Where does the voice come from?

 It all starts in the lungs, which provide the airflow necessary to create sound. When we speak, air passes from the lungs to the windpipe (trachea) and into the voice box (larynx). The larynx is home to vocal cords, two bands of muscle that vibrate as air passes through them. Sound waves are produced as a result of these vibrations. The pitch and volume of the sound are determined by the tension and length of the vocal cords, along with the amount of air pressure from the lungs.

Sound waves then resonate in the throat, mouth, and nasal passageways before being articulated into speech by the tongue, teeth, and lips.

When you should be concerned?

Having a strong voice is crucial for leading a good life. You should recognize something might be wrong when:

• Our voice becomes unusually hoarse or raspy
• Your throat feels dry, sore, and strained
• It has become very difficult to speak
• You’re clearing your throat repeatedly 
• People always ask you if you have a cold even when you do not
• You can’t hit some high notes when singing, which you once used to?
• You’re facing difficulty in swallowing  

What causes voice problems?

 Most voice problems arise from misusing or overusing the voice cords. But it could also stem from other issues or a combination of factors:

•  Vocal Strain: Talking, shouting, or singing too much can strain the vocal cords, leading to hoarseness or even loss of voice. This strain can cause vocal fatigue, making it difficult to produce sound without discomfort or pain.

• Upper Respiratory Issues: Conditions such as colds, sinusitis, or allergies are known for causing congestion and nasal drip. This can irritate the vocal cords. These issues can also lead to chronic throat clearing and coughing. 

• Smoking: Smoking irritates the vocal cords and increases the chances of throat cancer. Its harmful chemicals cause chronic inflammation and damage to the delicate tissues of the vocal cords.

• Acid Reflux: Not a very commonly known cause of voice cord damage, but stomach acid can be harmful if it reaches the throat. This condition is called laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR). It causes chronic throat clearing, inflammation, and scarring of the vocal cords. 

• Dehydration: Vocal cords need to stay hydrated to work properly. Lack of hydration can cause dryness, leading to irritation, inflammation, and a rough or coarse voice. Dehydration makes vocal cords inflexible, and therefore, less able to produce a clear, loud sound. 

Healthy habits to take care of your voice 

Maintaining vocal health is essential, especially for those who use their voice professionally. Here are some tips to keep your voice in top shape:

• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your vocal cords lubricated. Avoid caffeine and alcohol, which can dehydrate you.

•  Warm Up Your Voice: Just as athletes warm up before exercise, you should warm up your voice before extensive use. Simple humming or gentle vocal exercises can help.

• Avoid Vocal Strain: Use a microphone or amplification when speaking to large groups. Practice good vocal techniques and avoid shouting or whispering, both of which strain the voice.

• Maintain Good Vocal Hygiene: Avoid smoking and exposure to secondhand smoke. Manage acid reflux with diet and medication as needed.

• Rest Your Voice: Give your voice regular breaks, especially if you’ve been using it extensively. Complete vocal rest can help recover from strain.

• Practice Proper Breathing: Use diaphragmatic breathing to support your voice. This technique uses your diaphragm to push air from your lungs, providing more power and reducing strain on your vocal cords.

• Monitor Your Diet: Certain foods and drinks can affect your voice. Dairy products can thicken mucus, and spicy foods can trigger acid reflux. Opt for a balanced diet that supports overall health.

• Avoid Clearing Your Throat: Frequent throat clearing can irritate your vocal cords. Instead, try sipping water or swallowing to clear any irritation.

 By understanding how your voice works, recognizing potential problems, and adopting healthy habits, you can ensure that your voice remains strong and clear for years to come. In case you’re experiencing any voice or speech-related concerns, visit AUM ENT Clinic, the best ENT clinic in Mumbai. Our expert team can provide complete care and guidance to help you maintain optimal vocal health.