Good voice care is the key to singing longevity. Most vocal threats are within our control, but some may require medical intervention. This article will look at voice care factors within our control.

There are numerous things that can interfere with the efficiency and function of your vocal folds. Some interferences come from within, and some from without.

Here are some common influences that may cause problems for the voice and its function.

The general health of the singer

The common cold, a cough, flu and other infections such as in the sinuses, throat or ears.

Medical conditions

Such as allergies, thyroid problems, gastric reflux, chronic fatigue, ME, neurological conditions e.g. Parkinson’s,  respiratory conditions e.g. asthma or COPD, vocal pathology e.g. swollen vocal folds, polyps, nodules, Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Dysfunction.

Hydration

Your vocal folds need to be moist to do their job well. It takes several hours for anything you drink to reach a cellular level. Drink regularly throughout the day, enough to make your urine a pale straw colour. (Here’s a BBC documentary that covers hydration – how much and what, skip to 42:00). Drink more if you are exercising or in a very hot environment. Too much alcohol or caffeine and certain medications will contribute towards dehydration. Remember fruit and veggies contain water.

Throat clearing/coughing

Very abusive to vocal folds. Steam, sip water when possible limit throat clearing. If coughing is excessive consider cough medicine or see your doctor. Try to cough with your vocal folds in the open position – weird but effective. I’m a big fan of Vocalzone pastilles to ease throat irritation and dry coughs. Avoid losengers and medications that have local anesthetic or drying agents particularly when you’re singing.

Hormonal changes

This includes thyroid problems, PMS (PMT), menopause and male puberty. An increase or decrease in certain hormones will cause changes to the size and thickness of the vocal folds. The first 3 situations are easier to manage than the last one, that’s a time thing but with a good vocal coach guys can manage the changes better.  See your doctor for further advice on managing the other conditions.

Physical tiredness

Diet

Food is medicine, but it can also be an enemy to the voice. Certain foods may exacerbate gastric reflux, cause an allergic reaction or impact our energy levels. You know your body best. Make sure what you’re eating supports your health and wellbeing and ultimately your voice. Some studies have shown there is no correlation between milk consumption and mucus production unless you have an intolerance to lactose. In fact, studies have shown that milk is better for hydration than water!  If you suffer reflux avoid acidic foods e.g. citrus, tomatoes, spices, caffeine and eating late at night. Avoid any foods you have an allergy towards. (See my top tips for managing Gastric Reflux)