Voice under the weather - Q&A
Is your voice having a rough time?
You may have noticed changes in your voice as we transition into the cooler months. Some people experience voice difficulties during illnesses that come with the changing seasons such as colds, infections and allergies.1 Our voice may become more breathy, rough, tight, weak or tired.Why does my voice change?
During illness, inflammation and mucous may change the size and shape of our vocal cords which alters our voice quality. While constant throat clearing and coughing, increases vocal tightness, which can also cause our voice to sound different.2 In the absence of illness, using too much effort and overly tightening the muscles surrounding the vocal cords, can also lead to changes in voice quality.3What can I do for my voice?
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Avoid Vocal Strain | Speak at a comfortable volume and consider using a microphone if suitable. |
| Reduce Irritants | Minimise exposure to factors that can dry or irritate your throat, such as smoking and excessive caffeine intake. |
| Take Breaks | Rest your voice throughout the day, especially if you use it often. |
| Stay Hydrated | Drink plenty of water to keep your vocal cords well-lubricated. Use humidifiers to keep the air moist and avoid using the dry setting on your air conditioner. |
| Do Not Whisper | Avoid whispering because it can place additional strain on your vocal cords and contribute to further irritation.4,5 |
When do I need to see a Speech Pathologist?
If voice problems persist, a speech pathologist can help you to identify the underlying cause and recommend the right treatment. Early intervention is key to prevent and resolve persistent vocal difficulties and ensure optimal voice function. If you think you might need voice therapy, reach out to us.1Roy, N., Merrill, R. M., Gray, S. D., & Smith, E. M. (2005). Voice Disorders in the General Population: Prevalence, Risk Factors, and Occupational Impact. The Laryngoscope, 115(11), 1988–1995. https://doi.org/10.1097/01.mlg.0000179174.32345.41
2Zhang Z. (2021). The Physical Aspects of Vocal Health. Acoustics today, 17(3), 60–68. https://doi.org/10.1121/at.2021.17.3.60
3Zhang, Z. (2016). Mechanics of human voice production and control. The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, 140(4), 2614–2635. https://doi.org/10.1121/1.4964509
4Weston, Z., & Schneider, S. (2023). Demystifying Vocal Hygiene: Considerations for Professional Voice Users. Current Otorhinolaryngology Reports, 11, 387–394. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40136-023-00494-x
5Al-Hussain, O. H. (2024). Assessing the Effectiveness of Voice Therapy Techniques in Treating Dysphonia: an Otolaryngological Review. Cureus, 16(6). https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.62041
