Question:
I recently started a new business. I teach insurance employees continuing education and training in order to obtain their license. I teach 2-3 days a week for 8 hours straight and my throat hurts so bad after the first day. Is there anything I can do to avoid having this painful situation after each class? Also, it does progressively get worse.
Answer:
My best advice is for you to see an ENT (ear, nose and throat doctor) to find out if you have post nasal drip, acid reflux or some other condition that is causing your voice to tire so quickly.
The next best is to get with a voice professional who can analyze how you are using your voice and give you exercises to improve the function. If there is no one in your community, read on.
Without hearing and seeing you, I really can’t be exactly sure what elements of technique would help, but you will have to develop breath support, gentle phonation and strong resonance to be able to use your voice without fatigue.
It is not my intention to use this blog to push my products and services, but I do think if you listened to the Vocal Tune-Up CD you would get information that could help you identify your problems as well as exercises to help you resolve them.You can also work via telephone and skype with me or other vocal coaches.
Meanwhile, drink lots of water and Throat Coat Tea (made by Traditional Medicinals). Steam morning and evening. Avoid mint and eucalyptus in throat lozenges and just suck on a hard candy (butter scotch or something) to keep the voice moist. Avoid caffeine and anything you might be allergic too or that you notice causes phlegm in your system.
Lastly, don’t panic. The voice can both heal and strengthen and it will do so more quickly if you can relax. Trying to protect it often causes more strain than relief. Move one step at a time in the right direction and you will get on track.