How to Protect Your Voice During Cold & Flu Season: A Performer’s Guide
As cold and flu season approaches, performers, singers, teachers, and vocal professionals face a double threat: not only do respiratory illnesses affect your body—they directly impact your voice.
When you're sick, inflammation hits the entire respiratory tract, including the vocal folds, leading to hoarseness, strain, and increased risk of vocal injury. Pushing through a performance or rehearsal while ill can worsen the damage.
In fact, most vocal injuries occur in people who have to perform/sing while sick.
Why Cold and Flu Season Is Risky for Your Voice
Cold and flu viruses cause swelling in the upper respiratory tract, including the larynx. This can lead to:
Vocal fatigue
Raspy or hoarse voice
Loss of vocal range
Pain while speaking or singing
Singers and speakers often try to “power through,” but this can result in bruising which causes injuries like vocal nodules or polyps.
Tips to Protect Your Voice During Cold & Flu Season
1. Prioritize Hydration
Water thins mucus and keeps your vocal folds supple. Use a humidifier to combat dry indoor air.
2. Warm Up Gently
Even if you're feeling under the weather, never skip your vocal warm-up. Keep it light and mindful.
3. Know When to Rest
If you’re hoarse or feel increased vocal effort, it’s time to stop and check in with your vocal coach or laryngologist. Early intervention and rest can prevent injury.
4. Treat Yourself
Nasal irrigation, medications and other strategies can help to limit inflammation of the cords and make it safer to perform.
5. Schedule a Vocal Health Check
Early signs of vocal strain can be hard to detect. A stroboscopy at the Center for Vocal Health can spot issues before they become serious.
This singer had bruising due to singing while sick.
Your Voice Is Your Career—Protect It
If you’re a singer, speaker, or performer heading into a busy fall season, don’t ignore minor changes in your voice. Prevention and early care are key to keeping your voice strong all year long.
Book a vocal exam today with Dr. Reena Gupta and start the season with confidence.
