Teachers were estimated to be two to three times more likely than the general population to develop a voice disorder. Certain factors, such as number of classes per week, noise generated outside of the school setting, and volume of voice while lecturing, were indicated to increase the risk of teachers developing a voice disorder. -- American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
Behaviors contributing to voice problems:
- shouting
- talking loudly over noise
- coughing
- throat clearing
- poor hydration
Implement practices to reduce vocally traumatic behaviors:
- drink plenty of water
- talk at a moderate volume
WATER DRINKING TIPS
Recommendations on the right amount of water intake range from 2 quarts 2 liters per day to “whatever it takes to pee pale" (see chart below). Sipping your water throughout the day and evening is much more beneficial than trying to drink a lot all at once.
If you weigh
- 125 lbs: aim to drink 62 oz (about 2 quarts)
- 150 lbs: aim to drink 75 oz (about 5 pints)
- 200 lbs: aim to drink 100 oz (about 3 quarts)
People have different internal sensations of thirst. If your voice is working well, you may already get enough for your own system. If you notice signs of vocal fatigue increasing the amount of water you drink is a simple first step. As always, use common sense. If you have heart or kidney problems, or other concerns about fluid intake, talk to your doctor before making drastic changes.
Ice-cold drinks used to be forbidden. However, research has shown that it doesn’t matter whether you drink cold, hot, warm, or lukewarm beverages. Drink whatever temperature you like, what feels best on a particular day. The main thing is to get plenty of fluids on a regular basis.
