Music Expert Says a Few Simple Steps Will Save Voice From Sound of Silence

Like the physical parts of the body, your voice requires some care. You can keep your vocal cords running smoothly by taking a few simple steps, according to Sally Etcheto, a music instructor at California State University, Dominguez Hills, who gives the following tips:

- If you detect symptoms of a cold or other respiratory ailment, increase your consumption of fluids and vitamin C.

- When you come down with a cold or strain your voice, avoid any situation where you might have to overwork your voice. Don’t hesitate to coddle it.

- If your throat is sore, avoid public speaking and smoky rooms.

- Trying to talk above someone else’s loud voice can strain your voice.

- Keep your throat moist. If you are in a dry environment, such as in an airplane, compensate for the lack of humidity by drinking extra fluids. Using a humidifier at home will also help.

- Eat soothing foods, such as chicken soup, when your throat is scratchy. Avoid milk products, which produce a lot of mucus.

Individuals who abuse their voices may develop callouses on the vocal cords, known as vocal nodes, Etcheto warns.

Politicians, ministers, children who scream a lot, singers, cheerleaders and alcohol abusers are particularly susceptible to vocal nodes and voice strain.

In most cases, when the abuse stops, the vocal problems will disappear, Etcheto says.