Maintaining vocal cord health is essential for preserving proper vocal function, particularly for individuals who rely on their voices for work or daily communication. Edie Hapner, Ph.D., George W. Barber Jr. Foundation Endowed Professor of Otolaryngology and co-director of the University of Alabama at Birmingham Voice Center, says knowing one’s own voice is the most important key to good vocal health.
“It’s crucial to understand the myths that have persisted for years about how to handle a voice change,” Hapner said. “Above all, it is essential to know when to seek medical advice and recognize that only a specialist who can examine your vocal cords can determine the cause and appropriate treatment.”
Throat relief
Hapner says there is a common misconception that cough drops provide full supportive care for the voice.
“While lozenges can help hydrate your mouth and throat, they don’t reach or directly soothe your vocal folds,” she said. “In fact, menthol-based lozenges can be quite drying and may worsen throat irritation.”
Hapner suggests choosing glycerin-based lozenges, which help keep the throat moist without causing dryness.
Hydration
Staying hydrated is one of the simplest yet most effective ways to prioritize vocal cord function and health. However, hydration is just one part of vocal care.
Hydration levels are impacted by a variety of factors, including but not limited to any medications taken that can be drying, the environment and its humidity level, as well as any level of exercise or exertion that results in a loss of hydration through the production of sweat.
Hapner suggests eating “wet” foods like lettuce or watermelon and drinking non-caffeinated, non-alcoholic beverages.
Also, using a personal steamer or vaporizer can help keep vocal tissues moist, especially for those who commonly breathe through the mouth due to nasal congestion.
Remedies for congestion
Nasal congestion often leads to mouth breathing, which can further dry the throat and vocal tissues. One simple remedy is using a nasal saline rinse to gently clear the nasal passages and promote better airflow.
“Over-the-counter decongestants should be avoided unless directed by a health care provider, as they tend to dry out mucous membranes, including those in the throat,” Hapner said.
If nasal congestion persists, consult a physician, particularly an ear, nose and throat specialist, to determine the underlying cause and recommend the most effective treatment.
Know when to see a specialist
Persistent throat or voice issues should not be ignored, according to Hapner.
“A cough that persists signals an underlying problem requiring medical evaluation,” she said. “Similarly, if your voice has changed and the issue lasts more than two weeks, it’s important to consult an otolaryngologist.”
Since only a specialist can properly examine the vocal folds and determine the appropriate treatment, do not hesitate to ask a primary care provider for a referral.
“Recognizing when a voice change requires medical evaluation is important,” Hapner added. “Only a specialist who can directly examine your vocal folds can accurately diagnose the cause of your voice change and recommend an effective treatment.”