Display Patient Information Leaflets

How to look after your voice

Posted Tuesday, 28 May 2024

Date issued: May 2024

Review date: May 2026

Ref: D-139/speech and language/DC/how to keep a healthy voice v2

Drink plenty of water and take frequent sips. Water, juice etc. are better than tea or coffee, unless herbal or decaffeinated. Try not to have your drinks too hot.
Reflux: if you experience reflux, try to make sure that it is well controlled. Avoid spicy foods and eating late (ask your therapist for more details).
Notice your dietary habits. Some people find that they produce more phlegm if they eat a lot of dairy-based, milky or starchy foods.
Ensure the environment is not too hot or dry and be aware that dust fumes and sprays can dry your throat. Keep a bowl of water nearby in centrally heated places so that the air does not get too dry.
Use steam inhalation: use a bowl of warm/hot water and a towel or a portable steam inhaler cup. There is no need to add anything extra to the water. Steaming for five minutes twice a day (once in the morning and once in the evening) can help to moisturise your airway.
If you use asthma inhalers, remember to rinse your mouth after using.
Use a “quiet” voice if your voice feels tired. If people cannot hear you repeat what you have said more slowly and distinctly and encourage them to look at you as you speak.
Remember that your voice reacts to emotional stress so try to find ways to combat this.
Relax! This means different things to different people, think about how you relax.

Raising your voice above background noise. Avoid shouting.
Do not sing if your voice is weak or tired, or if you have a cold.
Avoid throat clearing repeatedly (try to sips of water instead).
Do not smoke. If you can’t give up, try to cut down.
Alcohol can be drying. Beer, cider, or wine in moderation is less harmful to your larynx than spirits.
Do not strain / force your voice. If it starts to feel tired, rest it.
Do not make long telephone calls.
Do not whisper, this strains your throat muscles.
Do not suck throat sweets unless you have a throat infection.
Do not lift heavy weights and talk at the same time.