Professional Voice Advice Otolaryngology (ENT) - Head and Neck Surgery The vocal folds are made of small muscles and very delicate tissues that require special care to withstand heavy voice use. Taking care of your voice is important in order to avoid damage to vocal folds and hoarseness. The following are some helpful tips to preserve the voice. 1. Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate Drink at least 2 litres, or 8-10 glasses of water per day. Caffeinated and alcoholic drinks pull water out of your system and deplete the vocal folds of needed hydration. Therefore, switch to decaffeinated beverages or drink a glass of water for every cup of coffee or soda. 2. Reduce/elimate harmful vocal behaviors • Avoid throat clearing. Try the following remedies: use an effortful swallow instead, sip water, talk through it, or clear your throat silently (with air only). • Avoid shouting, screaming, loud laughter, and making strange vocal sounds.
• Avoid whispering as it can be worse than speaking. • Avoid coughing when possible. 3. Reduce/eliminate acid reflux Gastric reflux is a common condition and is aggraved by stress, obesity, spicy food, caffeine, tobacco, alcohol, and eating late at night. 4. Maintain a healthy lifestyle • Eat a balanced diet, including vegetables, fruits and whole grain foods. • Exercise regularly. • Get adequate rest to minimise fatigue. If you do get sick, do not attempt to override a cold or laryngitis. See your physician and rest your voice. • Avoid smoking and breathing in smoggy, polluted air. • Avoid dry, artificial interior climates. 5. Practice good vocal use • Learn to use your voice with as little effort and tension as necessary • Less is more if we think of vocal longevity. Do not speak excessively.