Self-Help for Voice Problems
If you have been hoarse for a period of time, you may need the services of
an Ear-Nose-Throat Physician and/or a Speech-Language Pathologist in order to
make substantial, lasting voice improvement. In fact, one should always see a
physician if he/she has had persistent hoarseness which has lasted longer than
two weeks. If, however, you make some changes in the way you use your voice in
the early stages of voice problems, you may go a long way in recovering a good,
clear voice that will support you both at work and at play. Here are some ideas
that may help.
If you are hoarse, talk as little as possible
This gives your vocal cords a chance to heal.
Try to notice-and eliminate-throat clearing
When we cough or clear our throats, the vocal cords bang together, adding
to the voice problems which already exist. If you clear your throat as a habit,
eliminating this habit can sometimes result in substantial voice improvement.
Talk in a moderate pace-not too fast
Use good breath support
As you speak, take a new breath every 3-5 seconds. Take a breath before
starting a new sentence.
As you speak, open your mouth moderately wide
This will help your voice to carry without the need to push from the
throat. A good gauge is to put your index and third fingers together one on top
of the other and put them between your top and bottom teeth. This is the
approximate distance your mouth should open as you are talking.
