Lifestyle rules for maintaining vocal health

Organs that weaken with age

It's increasing.

I am realizing the importance of voice by observing those around me.

Learn the daily rules to protect your voice

I think it would be good~

Lifestyle rules for maintaining vocal health

Frequent recurrence of voice disorders

Voices are sound waves produced by the vibration of the vocal cords in the larynx, which are generated by air coming from the lungs. The vocal cords undergo periodic opening and closing movements, and the airflow passing between them is periodically interrupted, creating the voice. The respiratory and phonatory organs, as well as the pharynx and oral cavity, vary individually, resulting in unique characteristics like fingerprints. Voice disorders occur when there are abnormalities in these anatomical factors, leading to problems in phonation and changes in voice. Common examples include vocal cord nodules and polyps. Vocal health is essential for smooth interpersonal relationships and social life. If one cannot speak properly, no matter how healthy they are, they will be unable to communicate, which can lead to withdrawal and social isolation.

Loud noises while intoxicated cause more damage

Voice disorders tend to recur frequently. It is important to reduce situations where the vocal cords are continuously irritated by overusing the voice. Professor Lee Yoon-se from the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Seoul Asan Medical Center advises, "If you feel hoarseness or pain, refrain from using your voice," and "Drinking alcohol can cause the vocal cords to swell, which may lead to more damage when speaking." Above all, avoid speaking loudly, laughing loudly, or crying loudly. It is also better not to shout when cheering at sports events or attending concerts.

In noisy places, instead of shouting to call someone who is far away or talking loudly, it is better to go closer and call them or ask the person next to you to call. Avoid long phone conversations or singing and humming. It is a common misconception that whispering makes the voice softer, but this is incorrect. Whispering involves abnormal movement of the vocal cords, which is not a good way to speak. Habitually clearing your throat, coughing unnecessarily, or pushing or lifting heavy objects can also cause excessive collision of the vocal cords, so these actions should be avoided.

It is also important to keep the larynx moist and soft. Avoid medications or drinks that can dry out the larynx, such as caffeine and antihistamines. Drink plenty of water, but be cautious with dairy products as they can produce phlegm and trigger dry coughing. Wrapping a towel soaked in warm water around the mouth and nose and taking deep breaths to inhale as much steam as possible can also be helpful.

Reporter Kim Sun-young kim.sunyeong@joongang.co.kr

Health/Fitness

Lifestyle rules for maintaining vocal health