Some everyday habits can be harmful to vocal health and we need to avoid them
On April 16th, “World Voice Day” is celebrated, which aims to make the population aware of the importance of voice preservation and the necessary care to avoid possible illnesses. “Many people do not realize that voice changes can be signs of diseases, such as laryngeal cancer”, warns Dr. Bruno Borges de Carvalho Barros, specialist in otorhinolaryngology.
Thus, it is necessary to pay attention to the symptoms that may indicate that something is not right: “Any change in timbre and way of putting the voice, pain, cough, throat clearing or frequent hoarseness are already signs that something is not right and it is necessary to investigate”, says the specialist.
Problems that affect vocal health
According with the doctor. Bruno Borges de Carvalho Barros, there are several diseases that can interfere with voice quality. In childhood, the laryngitis are the most common, caused by viruses or bacteria. Vocal nodules are also common in children due to overuse of the voice.
Still according to the doctor, in adults, the causes are more varied and may include injuries due to inappropriate or excessive use of the voice, gastroesophageal reflux, harmful habits such as tobacco and alcohol consumption, neurological diseases such as Parkinson’s, trauma to the nerve responsible for movement of the vocal folds and hormonal alterations.
It is important to highlight that persistent hoarseness for more than two weeks should be evaluated by an otorhinolaryngologist to rule out the possibility of laryngeal cancer.
Most recommended treatments
As explained by the otorhinolaryngologist, the treatment will depend on the type of diagnosis. In infectious conditions, antibiotics and/or anti-inflammatories. In case of inadequate use of the voice, speech therapy can help to improve and prevent further injuries. Surgical treatment is reserved for suspected cancer or lesions unresponsive to speech therapy.
10 care that guarantee the health of the voice
Next, Dr. Bruno Borges de Carvalho Barros explains how to keep your voice healthy.
1. Take care of food
Prioritize a diet rich in fiber and protein. foods that require more chewing strengthen the vocal cords.
2. Increase your water intake
Consume lots of water, as hydration of the larynx is important to prevent vocal cord injuries.
3. Don’t yell
Avoid screaming, as the friction generated can injure the vocal folds.
4. Speak slowly
Speak slowly, as the voice is produced by the air flow from the lungs and action of the laryngeal muscles, and overloading them may require greater effort.
5. Avoid fizzy drinks
That’s because they can irritate the larynx.
6. Don’t smoke
Cigarette toxins can affect and irritate the larynx, making it more swollen and dry.
7. Avoid hot substances
Avoid recurrent consumption of substances with a very high temperature, such as cigars and electronic cigarettes.
8. Take care of air conditioning and fan blades
Keep the air conditioning and fan blades clean and free of mites, as breathing contaminated air can lead to a series of respiratory diseases.
9. Don’t go barefoot
Avoid walking barefoot, as this can leave the respiratory system vulnerable to viruses that cause colds and flu, which can cause vocal changes.
10. Beware of temperature changes
Avoid being exposed to sudden changes in temperature, such as entering and leaving air-conditioned environments or wearing inappropriate clothing, as this can affect the body as a whole and harm the voice.
By Mayra Barreto Cinel
Source: Maxima
I am an experienced author and journalist with a passion for lifestyle journalism. I currently work for Buna Times, one of the leading news websites in the world. I specialize in writing stories about health, wellness, fashion, beauty, interior design, and more. My articles have been featured on major publications such as The Guardian and The Huffington Post.