Question:
Why do I get dry mouth while I’m singing and then become hoarse?
Answer:
Dry mouth is a common symptom of performance anxiety. Continuously breathing with your mouth open can also contribute to the problem. There are other causes as well, which a doctor can help you with: side effect of certain medications (including antihistamines and decongestants), side effect of certain diseases and infections, side effect of certain medical treatments, damage to the salivary glands, nerve damage, dehydration and lifestyle (smoking, alcohol, etc.) If you think your dry mouth is caused by certain medications you are taking, talk to your doctor. He or she may adjust the dose you are taking or switch you to a different drug that doesn’t cause dry mouth. Other steps you can take that may help improve saliva flow include sucking on candy or chewing gum, drinking plenty of water to help keep your mouth moist and breathing through your nose, not your mouth, as much as possible.