Time to Talk - Don't lose your voice, but use sparingly!
This is the final instalment of the Time to Talk column, contributed to South Tipp Today for the past nember of weeks, by speech and language therapists in Clonmel, Jennifer O'Mara and Mary Nugent who are based in the Community Care Centre, Western Road, Clonmel. Over the course of the column Mary and Jennifer have detailed and advised on a number of speech and language issues, from stammering to swallowing and stroke-related problems. In this, the final piece, they explain how our voice is
How does your voice work?
Your voice is created by two small muscles contained in the voice box (larynx) in your throat. As you breathe out and the air passes through these muscles a noise is made. That noise is shaped into sounds and words in your mouth.
Speech is most people's way of communicating but throughout life your voice gets a lot of wear and tear, especially if it is not used properly. It is very important to take care of your voice as it is your tool for communication.
Signs of voice problems
There are many symptoms of voice problems. These include hoarseness, dryness, soreness or tightness, voice loss particularly after a night out or not being able to speak loudly or sing. The most commonly affected are people who use their voice in work all day, for example, teachers or hairdressers. Women are most likely to have voice problems than men.
What to do?
If you notice changes in your voice lasting more than ten days you should consult with your GP. Your voice problem may need to be investigated by an Ear Nose and Throat (ENT) Specialist. He/she may then recommend a course of voice therapy.
Tips to protect your voice
-Don't clear your throat or cough habitually, instead try to swallow slowly or take a sip of water.
-Don't yell, scream or cheer habitually, try clapping or using a whistle.
-Make sure you keep hydrated and drink plenty of water, juice or herbal teas but avoid too much caffeine or alcohol.
-Never whisper in an attempt to save your voice.
-Steaming can help relieve the symptoms of sinus problems and moisten the airway.
-When using the central heating, place a bowl of water near the radiator to prevent the air becoming too dry.
-Remember, don't demand more of your voice than you would of the rest of your body.
-Allow for periods of rest during the day.
If you are concerned about speech, language, voice or swallowing disorders or if you would like to speak to a speech and language therapist, you can contact the Speech and Language Therapy Services at the Community Care Centre on (052) 6177281.
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Weather for Clonmel
Tuesday 22 May 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 12 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 15 mph
Wind direction: South
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 14 mph
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