Summer Heat and Humidity can Affect Vocal Cords

Singers! Extreme heat and humidity can negatively impact a singer's vocal cords ranging from dryness, irritation, and even potential infection. High humidity, for example, can cause the vocal cords to produce more mucus, which can make it more difficult for the vocal folds to function correctly, and can affect clarity as well as control.  And, high humidity has even been known to create an environment conducive for bacteria and viruses, resulting, for example, in a sore throat. In some cases, excessive humidity can cause swelling and inflammation of the vocal cords making phonation more difficult. If you live an an arid climate, hot, dry air can dry out the vocal cords quickly, and lead to irritation, and even hoarseness. Further, nasal congestion can increase, leading to breathing more frequently through the mouth, which further contributes to a dry throat and dry vocal cords. With extreme heat and humidity, singers may experience decreased vocal range, less clarity, and less flexibility.

Solutions! First and foremost, stay hydrated and keep those electrolytes going! If you can, monitor humidity (40-60% is optimal). Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks. If you move from a hot environment into a cooler location, let your body cool down gradually first before singing. Be sure to warm up slowly! Check the voice with easy quiet staccato notes in a mid range initially, and see how your voice is doing before launching into a full-blown warm up and your songs! You may wish to consider singing for a shorter period of time in this heat and humidity scenario. If in doubt, rest your voice and focus on studying your music without singing. Please let me know if you have more questions! vandermeervoicestudio@gmail.com - Zoe Vandermeer, singer and voice teacher, www.vandermeervoicestudio.com (Disclaimer: Zoe Vandermeer is not a doctor, so if you are experiencing vocal issues, please seek help from your medical provider)