resources for Voice

"We have all experienced problems with our voices, times when the voice is hoarse or when sound will not come out at all! Colds, allergies, bronchitis, exposure to irritants such as ammonia, or cheering for your favorite sports team can result in a loss of voice."

"A voice disorder occurs when voice quality, pitch, and loudness differ or are inappropriate for an individual's age, gender, cultural background, or geographic location."  

ASHA.org

Some causes of voice disorders include vocal cord nodules and polyps, vocal cord paralysis, paradoxical vocal fold movement, and spasmodic dysphonia. 

vocal hygiene

Vocal abuse is one of the main causes of voice disorders. Famous singers sometimes have to cancel shows because of damage due to poor vocal hygiene. 

Good vocal hygiene means:

• Staying hydrated! Drink plenty of water. Limit caffeine intake. 

• Limit yelling or speaking at loud volumes. (Teachers and coaches often are victims of vocal strain due to having to speak over large numbers of people.)

• Don't overuse your voice. If you have to use it a lot, be sure to take rests periodically. 

• Rest your voice especially when ill or tired. 

• Don't smoke, and avoid smokey environments. 

• Avoid clearing your throat or coughing too often. It's not good for your voice.

• Limit "character" voices, or talking in a voice other than your natural one.