Jenny M. from Idaho asks:
HOW do I get my voice back?? I have a solo on Sunday (four times!!) and I NEED to be able to sing! Tell me, please!!
Sooner or later you’ll get a cold or flu, or need relief from irritation due to excessive speaking or singing that affects your ability to perform. So what do you do? What are the solutions on anything from the common cold through to serious vocal problems?
Colds, Flu, Hoarseness and Voice Loss
While this isn’t an exhaustive list, I would suggest you start with these steps:
1. Hydrate your body. Drink plenty of water.
2. Avoid caffeinated beverages such as tea (except mint, lemon, or Throat Coat), coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol. Do not smoke.
3. Take Vitamin C tablets or eat fruits/vegetables rich in Vitamin C to aid your bodies natural defenses. Lemon, honey, and ginger contain anti-viral properties. Fresh ginger has natural anti-inflammatory properties.
4. REST!! Do NOT attempt to sing and avoid talking to allow the inflammation an opportunity to reduce.
Severe, violent coughing can injure the vocal folds. Avoid clearing your throat. Whispering is even worse as it blows dry air through your vocal cords at speeds as fast as 100 miles per hour.
5. Slippery Elm lozenges and other products are used by some singers to soothe the throat. Many of the Ricola products are also recommended. I personally use Gerther’s Pastilles. Do not use products containing menthol as it contributes to dryness. Absolutely do NOT use Chloraseptic or any numbing agents.
6. Hot water steam inhalation, with or without a few drops of Eucalyptus, Peppermint or other essential oil helps to clear the sinuses. Again, do not use menthol as it can have a drying effect.
7. If pain lasts for more than a few days, visit a doctor.
8. On recovery start with some gentle humming for 5-10 minutes at a time and slowly build up to a few vocal exercises in your mid-range gradually expanding the range over several days. The rate of recovery will depend on the severity of illness and how experienced a singer you are. Any recurrence of hoarseness stop and rest the voice for another couple of days.
I realize that these things are easier said than done. Especially when an important singing opportunity is days or hours away! However, consideration of your vocal health is a must. My best vocal health wishes to you!
Do you have a response for Jenny? Leave your comment below!