Protecting Your Voice: The Importance of Vocal Health

May 22, 2025

---

In recognition of National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, it’s important to highlight the significance of vocal health. The voice is a primary tool for communication in both professional and personal settings. Just as other parts of the body can become injured from overuse or misuse, the voice is equally vulnerable. Without proper care, vocal strain can lead to disorders that affect clarity, volume, pitch, and overall vocal quality. These changes can compromise job performance and interpersonal communication.

Vocal health involves maintaining habits that support healthy vocal function. The vocal folds, located in the larynx, are responsible for producing sound. When misused—through excessive yelling, talking while ill, or exposure to irritants—their function can deteriorate. Symptoms such as hoarseness, vocal fatigue, reduced range, or strain often signal the onset of a voice disorder. These signs should not be ignored.

To promote and protect vocal health, consider the following recommendations:

Do:

Drink 8–10 glasses of water daily

Move closer to your listener to avoid raising your voice

Reduce background noise before speaking

Use amplification when addressing larger audiences

Pace your voice use throughout the day and take rest periods

Warm up your voice before extended use with humming or singing scales

Avoid smoky or irritant-filled environments

Quit smoking

Don’t:

Expect your voice to perform beyond your general physical capacity

Yell or cheer for extended periods or as a habit

Speak excessively while you are sick

Use your voice when it feels strained

Ignore hoarseness, strain, or vocal pain that persists—consult a medical professional

Most voice disorders can be successfully treated with the support of a speech-language pathologist. Early identification and appropriate intervention are critical. During National Speech-Language-Hearing Month, individuals are encouraged to take proactive steps to safeguard their voice. Vocal health is essential to effective communication—prioritize it accordingly. Mille Lacs Health System proudly recognizes Sara Schewe, MS, CCC-SLP, our certified Speech-Language Pathologist, for her dedication to vocal health and communication wellness. If you have concerns about your voice or speech, Sara is available for evaluation and treatment through our Rehabilitation Services Department. To schedule an appointment, call 320-532-2520.