Voice is a defining factor of a person, but many people do not know how to take care of their voice to maintain vocal longevity.
Doctors suggest awareness about voice care as a healthy and beautiful voice is important for the profession of a person.
“You have to listen to your own voice, so that any problem can be predicted quickly,” Professor of Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Dr Mani Lal AichLitu told Bangladesh Post as the World Voice Day will be celebrated in Bangladesh this year on April 16.
The World Voice Day is devoted to raising awareness on issues affecting the health of the voice.
It helps bring global awareness to the need to prevent voice problems, rehabilitate troubled voices, train artistic voices, and research the function and application of the human voice.
The theme of the day is “your voice matters”.
Prof Litu has formed Bangladesh Voice Association which will celebrate the Voice Day with different programmes.
“First of all awareness is needed. Many people do not know how important a healthy and beautiful voice is for their profession. You need to understand the problem of your voice. If the problem persists for more than 3 weeks, an ENT specialist should be consulted,” he said, while giving some advice.
“Moisture is essential for vocal health. So drink at least 2 liters of water every day.
Be careful with your voice. Don't speak too loudly or change your voice. Alcohol, coffee, tea, and soft drinks cause dehydration in body cells. It's okay to drink them in small amounts, but not too much.
“Finish eating at least 2 hours before bedtime and eat small meals. Avoid excessive use of the telephone. Avoid repeated throat clearing/coughing unnecessarily.
“Dry weather is harmful to the voice. Air conditioner reduces the humidity of the voice. So use a humidifier at night. In airplanes, avoid coffee, tea, and soft drinks. Drink at least 8 ounces of water every hour,” he said.
“Many times when the throat is dry or mucus is accumulated, we try to clear the throat by coughing loudly, which is very harmful.
“You can try it in a different way. First take a long breath, hold it for a while, and then make a slow sound while exhaling.
“We often use antihistamines for allergies or colds. Antihistamine drugs cause dry voice. Avoid these and use nasal steroid sprays if possible,” he said.
“You can gargle with lukewarm water. Exercise regularly and get enough sleep.”