Sore Throat: 3 Causes & Solutions

Many singers struggle with having a sore throat when singing (or after singing). Although there can be many culprits to this, here are the 3 main (singing) causes and solution to avoid a sore throat when singing!

The Sore Throat Myth: Let's Clear it Up

Before we jump into the nitty-gritty, let me clear up a common misconception – having a sore throat after singing is NOT normal! Yes, you heard that right. It's not a badge of honor or a rite of passage for singers. Instead, your body says, "Hey, something's off." So, let's explore what might be causing that soreness and how to address it.

Cause #1: Tension and Vocal Techniques

Picture this: Your vocal cords are like the delicate strings of a musical instrument. Now, imagine if you're trying to play beautiful melodies with overly tense lines – it won't sound quite right, and you risk damaging them. We're discussing the tension around your larynx,  the voice box,  in your neck. We don't want pressure there, but we want it in your abdominal muscles, which support your breath control.

Solution #1: Breathe Easy

The solution here is diaphragmatic breathing. Instead of squeezing your throat, direct that energy to your abdominal muscles as you breathe. This not only eases the strain on your vocal cords but also helps you maintain control over your voice. Remember, 90% of the time, this is the golden ticket to releasing that tension and preventing soreness.

Cause #2: Incorrect Vocal Techniques

Have you ever felt the urge to push your voice to hit those high notes? Well, this often stems from improper vocal technique. Singing requires the correct technique at the right time, and choosing the wrong one can strain your voice.

Solution #2: Technique Tune-Up

Educate yourself about the various vocal techniques out there. Understand when to switch between registers (chest, mixed, head voice) and how to apply them. Mastering this art will ensure a smoother transition, protect your vocal cords, and bid farewell to that nagging sore throat.

Cause #3: Hydration Matters

Think of your vocal cords as delicate flowers that need nurturing. When you sing, your cords rub together, and irritation sets in if they're not well-hydrated. That's why hydration is critical.

Solution #3: Quench that Thirst

Hydration isn't just for the body; it's for your voice, too. Keep your vocal cords moist by drinking water, and even consider steam inhalation or using a nebulizer. A well-hydrated voice is a happy voice, and you'll notice the difference in how effortless singing becomes.

Time to Put it All into Practice

There you have it—the three leading causes of a sore throat after singing and their corresponding solutions. Remember, singing should be a joyful experience, not a painful one. So, here's your challenge: identify which cause resonates with you the most and take action. Whether it's refining your vocal technique, working on your breathing, or upping your hydration game, you've got this!

To dive into the world of vocal technique and start saying goodbye to your sore throat when singing, sign up for this free training:  "DISCOVER THE MOST POWERFUL VOCAL TECHNIQUE."