How to Protect Your Voice, Prevent Hoarseness, and Know When to See an ENT Specialist

Top Vocal Health Tips for Singers 

Whether you’re a professional singer, choir member, worship leader, teacher, or someone who simply loves to use your voice, vocal health is essential. At Advanced ENT & Allergy in Newport News, VA, we care for many singers and performers who want to protect their vocal cords and avoid preventable conditions like hoarseness, vocal strain, or nodules.

Dr. Timothy Queen, ENT and allergy specialist, shares practical tips for keeping your voice healthy along with the latest insights in voice science and laryngology.

1. Rest Your Voice Between Singing or Speaking Sessions

Vocal rest is one of the most effective ways to prevent inflammation and overuse injuries.

• Why it matters: The vocal cords (or folds) are delicate tissues that vibrate hundreds of times per second when you speak or sing. Without rest, they can swell or develop irritation that affects your pitch, tone, and strength.
• What to do: Build breaks into rehearsals, performances, or long speaking days. Even short rest periods give the vocal folds time to recover.
• Pro tip: Try “silent breaks” rather than whispering since whispering can strain your voice even more.

2. Avoid Whispering, It Can Strain Your Vocal Cords

Many singers assume whispering is gentler, but it actually tightens the vocal cords, forcing them into a strained position.

• When you’re hoarse: Use a soft, relaxed voice or opt for total vocal rest.
• After illness: Continue to avoid whispering, even as your voice recovers.

3. Use Caution with Antihistamines (They Can Dry Out Your Vocal Folds)

Dry vocal cords are more prone to irritation, cracking, and strain.

• Traditional antihistamines, such as diphenhydramine (Benadryl) or older-generation allergy medications, can significantly dry out the throat.
• For singers, this dryness can make phonation more difficult and lead to hoarseness or fatigue.

Better alternative for mucus management is Mucinex® (guaifenesin). Dr. Queen recommends Mucinex for clearing thick mucus, which is especially helpful for:

• “Globules” of mucus sitting on the vocal cords
• Postnasal drip
• Seasonal or environmental allergies common in Hampton Roads 

Always speak with your provider before adding or adjusting medications, especially if you have other health conditions.

4. Hydration Is Essential for Singer Vocal Health

Your vocal cords need lubrication to function properly.

• Aim for at least 64 oz. of water daily, more if you’re singing, exercising, or performing outdoors.
• Avoid dehydrating substances such as alcohol, caffeine, and high-dose antihistamines.
• Use a cool-mist humidifier at night—Virginia’s indoor winter air can be especially drying.

Worried About Vocal Cord Nodules? Here’s What You Should Know

Many singers worry about nodules, but vocal cord nodules are actually less common than most people may think. 

How to confirm whether you have nodules

The only definitive way is through a flexible endoscopy. This is a simple, in-office procedure where a very thin scope is passed through the nose to directly visualize the vocal cords.

At Advanced ENT & Allergy, this procedure is:

• Minimally uncomfortable
• Done right in our Newport News office
• Essential for accurate diagnosis

The Two Most Common Causes of Hoarseness are Allergies and Acid Reflux 

First, allergies:  Coastal Virginia is known for high pollen counts, humidity, and environmental allergens. These can trigger:

• Postnasal drip
• Nasal congestion
• Throat clearing
• Chronic cough
• Mucus buildup on the vocal cords

All of these can impact a singer’s voice. 

Second, acid reflux (LPR – Laryngopharyngeal Reflux): Singers are especially prone to silent reflux, which irritates the vocal cords without causing traditional heartburn.

Common symptoms include:

• Morning hoarseness
• Frequent throat clearing
• A “lump in the throat” sensation (globus)
• Voice cracking or fatigue
• Chronic cough

Left untreated, LPR can significantly affect vocal performance.

When to See an ENT for Hoarseness or Voice Concerns

You should schedule an appointment with an ENT specialist if:

• Your hoarseness lasts more than 2–3 weeks
• You experience frequent voice fatigue
• You rely on your voice for your profession
• You have pain when speaking or singing
• You feel mucus on the vocal cords that won’t clear
• You suspect reflux or allergies may be affecting your voice

A proper evaluation can identify treatable issues early, before they interfere with your performance or long-term vocal health.

Professional Voice Care Is Available in Newport News, VA

At Advanced ENT & Allergy, we offer comprehensive care for singers, speakers, teachers, worship leaders, and anyone experiencing voice concerns. Our services include:

• Flexible laryngoscopy
• Allergy evaluation & treatment
• Acid reflux assessment
• Voice therapy referrals
• Customized treatment plans
• Medication guidance
• Preventive vocal health counseling

Take Care of Your Voice — It’s One of Your Greatest Tools

Whether you’re a professional vocalist or someone who simply loves to sing, these simple steps can help protect your voice and prevent common issues.

If you're experiencing ongoing hoarseness, mucus buildup, or changes in your voice, the specialists at Advanced ENT & Allergy in Newport News are here to help you get answers and effective treatment.

Ready to schedule an evaluation?

Contact Advanced ENT & Allergy – Newport News, VA to book your appointment.