Laryngitis, Hoarseness and Vocal Blowout

At one time or another, almost all singers have experienced one, two or even three of the above afflictions. Understanding each can help you better determine the course of action needed to begin the healing process.

Laryngitis – Complete or nearly complete loss of the voice due to illness, disease or vocal strain. An upper respiratory infection (bronchitis, sinusitis, post-nasal drip…etc.) can infect the entire respiratory tract (of which the vocal folds are part) causing swelling and or inflammation. For general relief of pain from swelling, Bromelain can be a huge aid. Bromelain is an herbal supplement made from the stalk of a pineapple. When the tablet is taken on an empty stomach, it is an anti-inflammatory and will reduce any swelling. For an actual infection, it may be necessary to see a doctor for an antibiotic prescription.

Hoarseness – A harsh, raspy vocal quality (also called blow-out) due to swelling of the vocal folds. Hoarseness can be caused by an infection (as in laryngitis), irritants (smoke inhalation, excessive alcohol, acid reflux, etc), or by improper use of the voice mechanism. Resting the voice for a few days can go a long way in assisting the healing process. Hoarseness that lasts more than one week is a sign of an advanced problem. Seek the attention of a competent and qualified Otolaryngologist - pronounced: otto-larin-gol-o-jist - also known as an ear, nose and throat specialist, as well as seeing a voice teacher/therapist to help retrain the voice and introduce good habits.

There are 4 stages of Blow-Out:

Stage One: Extreme vocal fatigue. This is when you’ve been speaking or singing for a length of time and your voice feels like it really needs a rest. This is usually accompanied by a “thinner” vocal sound causing you to “push your sound out” to achieve projection.

Stage Two: Your voice is definitely hoarse. There is a loss of range and the lack of vocal “luster” lasts for a day or more. This may be accompanied by a developing and continuous need to clear your throat

Stage Three: The sound of your voice is “throaty” and “squeaks” at times. There is a loss of range, volume and tone. It’s difficult to get your voice to work.

Stage Four: It hurts to use your voice. Vocal nodules (nodes) have formed.

*Stage One is a warning sign. If the right things are done fast, the additional stages should never be reached. With any type of extreme vocal condition, however, seeking professional assistance (medical or voice coach/instructor) can keep the problem from becoming chronic.

REMEDIES

1. Do not gargle! Contrary to popular thought, gargling can be harmful to the inflamed vocal mechanism.

2. Drink warm (not hot!) liquids – preferably teas (with honey as a sweetener as opposed to sugar.). Licorice, Peppermint, Slippery Elm, Throat Coat are all great to promote a health voice.

3. Drink plenty of room temperature water.

4. Steam Treatment:

• Directions: Boil water, preferably filtered or distilled. Pour into a bowl. With your head covered by a large towel, lean over the bowl and make a "tent" to trap the steam. Inhale gently through your nose for 5 to 10 minutes or until there is no more steam.

• Do not speak or whisper (which can be just as strenuous as talking) for at least 20 minutes after steaming. If you need to communicate during that time, use a note pad, tablet, or electronic device to write any questions/comments/answers.

• Do not go outside for at least 30 minutes after treatment. If it's below 70 degrees outside, wait at least one hour and then be sure to wrap your mouth, nose, and throat with a scarf. Breathing cold air too soon afterwards will be a shock to your voice and may aggravate an infection.

• If you are going to sing, follow the above steps and be sure to include at least 30 minutes of proper vocal warm-up

1. Papaya Enzyme Tablets can assist in thinning mucous membranes which can overwork due to upper respiratory infection.

2. Eat lots of garlic. It is a natural antibiotic, high in vitamin C.

3. Golden Seal and Echinacea tablets or drops. Both are natural antibiotics and strengthen the immune system. They fight bacterial infection. It is recommended to use only for 7 days. Do not take if you are pregnant or nursing. Use with caution if allergic to ragweed.

4. Zinc Lozenges are good for relief from throat pain and help to heal and promote immune function.

5. Slippery Elm is good for soothing scratchy throats. It is sold in health food stores in lozenge form.

6. Stop smoking!! Smoke irritates the lining of the vocal folds resulting in prolonged healing times.

7. Avoid any menthol products as they dry out the vocal folds.

8. Avoid any alcoholic beverages as they dry out the vocal folds and impede their function causing you to over-compensate to create sounds.

9. Humidify – Use a humidifier or vaporizer to add moisture to the air around you. (see "Winter Wellness (singing strategies)"

Craig M. Jones is a professional singer, musician, songwriter and vocal educator with over 30 years’ experience in the entertainment industry. He has performed locally and internationally, as both a singer and percussionist, with such notables as Orange Then Blue, Stan Getz and Walter Beasley. A former member of The American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine (A4M), he strives to blend his knowledge of health and wellness into a cohesive vocal technique to both develop and support all musical styles and genres.

*The A4M is a not-for-profit medical society dedicated to the advancement of technology to detect, prevent, and treat aging related disease and to promote research into methods to retard and optimize the human aging process. A4M is also dedicated to educating physicians, scientists, and members of the public on anti-aging issues.