Singing Tips - Sore Throat?

Sore throat?
* A lot of talking, singing, drinking caffeine or alcohol dehydrates the body and vocal folds-drink plenty of water to hydrate them
* Avoid throat clearing and harsh coughing. This action can damage the delicate vocal fold tissues. Clear your throat with small gentle actions.
* Hay fever, allergies, alcohol, smoking, passive smoking, drugs, asthma (Ventolin) and reflux can cause swelling of the vocal folds.

Treat your voice with some extra care when these illnesses occur:
* Be Quiet. Limit talking to bare essentials. When you do need to talk, do so softly and avoid shouting or screaming.
* Turn down the TV or stereo when speaking to family members at home. Don't shout across the house to each other. Go into the same room to speak to them.
* Don't hold a conversation over loud music, especially at a pub or nightclub. If you can't be easily heard by the person you are talking to, move closer to them or go somewhere quieter e.g. outside. Have a good time but be careful to minimise the strain on your voice.
* Don't sing in full voice when it is not necessary, especially for long periods of time. Get used to 'marking' when singing.

Know your vocal limits. Self-awareness is the key.