Protect Your Voice
Voice Care Suggestions:
- Drink plenty of water—well-hydrated tissue is less prone to damage.
- Limit alcohol and caffeine consumption—both are dehydrating.
- Use a humidifier if the air is dry.
- Avoid irritants such as cigarette smoke, fumes and dust.
- If you have frequent reflux (heartburn), see a physician promptly, to avoid potential vocal cord damage.
- Avoid yelling and screaming—such as at sports games.
- Avoid straining your voice by talking excessively to overcome background noise.
- Take frequent voice breaks if your job demands long periods of speaking.
- If you speak to groups, and have to project your voice, use a microphone.
- Minimize frequent throat clearing.
- If an upper respiratory infection has made your voice hoarse, limit talking.