Is summer affecting your vocal cords? Follow doctor's tips to protect your voice

Severe thirst is the body's first response to dehydration in summer. However, most of us hardly realise that summer affects our voice too. Discomfort in the throat, a shrill voice and difficulty speaking are some of the problems that people face during summer. Dehydration of the vocal cord is the main reason for this. Dr Rebecca Philippose, MS ENT surgeon at Mar Ivanios Hospital, Puthupally, shares tips to lubricate the vocal cords, hydrate the throat, and preserve your voice.

Voice and hydration
Lubrication is essential for the vocal cords to function properly. The vocal cords dry out when your water intake is low.
High friction
Dry vocal cords increase the friction between them. This causes inflammation in the vocal cords, and your voice becomes hoarse.
Shrill voice
Vocal cords cannot function properly without adequate hydration. As a result, your voice gets shrill or broken.

Follow these tips
1. Sip by sip: Your throat will be hydrated if you sip small amounts of water at regular intervals rather than gulping down in one go.
2. Low caffeine: Overconsumption of tea and coffee causes diuresis, making the throat drier. Fresh buttermilk or tender coconut water could be enjoyed for refreshment and hydration.
3. Steaming: You could inhale steam 2 – 3 times a day to keep your vocal cords hydrated.

4. Avoid overexertion: Do not try to raise your voice or strain when your voice is already hoarse. This might cause vocal nodules or benign growths on the vocal cords.
5. Air conditioner: The air inside an air-conditioned room is dry. Make sure to sip water regularly if you are staying in air-conditioned rooms.

Tips for singers
a)Avoid deep-fried food or cold treats during summer, as they might strain the voice.
b)Having dinner at least 2–3 hours before going to bed will help avoid Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) or acid reflux, which can cause discomfort in the throat.
c)Make sure to consult an ENT specialist if the discomfort in your throat lasts for more than two weeks. d)Laryngoscopy could be done to ensure that your vocal cords are in good health.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does smoking affect vocal cords?
Yes. Secondhand smoke can also affect the health of the vocal cords.
2. When to visit a doctor to treat the vocal cords?
If your voice has been different for more than two weeks, it's better to visit the doctor immediately.

3) Do vocal cords change as we age?
Yes, when we are born, it is about 8 mm, and they grow as we age.
4) Where are the vocal cords in our body?
They are within our larynx, located above our windpipe.