How to Care for Your Voice & Throat

The voice is the result of subconscious cooperation between the diaphragm, lungs, vocal chords, upper throat, mouth, nose and ears. An issue in any of these areas can lead to vocal problems, such as vocal strain. Vocal strain from frequent talking, singing or shouting can cause a variety of symptoms, including sore throat, hoarseness or temporary voice loss. Proper care of your voice and throat may help you prevent these issues.

Instructions

• 1

  Practice breathing deeply from your diaphragm by pushing the stomach out when you inhale and pulling it in as you exhale. This provides an adequate supply of air for talking or singing.

• 2

  Stay hydrated by drinking a minimum of six to eight glasses of water or other liquids throughout the day. Limit your intake of caffeine and alcohol, which can dry out the throat.

• 3

  Use a humidifier to moisturize the air in frequently used rooms. Dry air can worsen voice and throat issues.

• 4

  Exercise regularly. Exercise improves stamina and muscle tone, which support the good posture and breathing techniques necessary for prolonged vocal use, according to the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders.

• 5

  Eat a healthy, balanced diet, rich in vitamins A, C and E to promote immunity and healthy mucus membranes in the throat. Limit your intake of spicy foods, which can cause stomach acid to move into the throat.

• 6

  Avoid irritants, such as cigarette smoke, secondhand smoke, cleaning products with harsh fumes and pollution.

• 7

  Get plenty of rest. Fatigue can cause vocal strain. Rest your voice when it is hoarse by avoiding speaking and singing, and avoid talking over loud noises, if possible.

• 8

  Gargle a cup of warm water mixed with 1 tsp. baking soda and 1 tsp. salt to remove phlegm, allergens or irritants before speaking or singing if your throat is irritated. A cup of warm tea with honey can also be used to soothe and coat the throat, according to The Total Communicator.