Voice hygiene refers to measures that can help to preserve and enhance a person’s voice. A more structured approach by a voice professional is voice therapy.
These may be:
(1) therapeutic (in response to a dysphonic episode)
(2) preventative in high risk individuals
Measures that can contribute to health of the human voice:
(1) voice rest (from a few days to a week or more)
(2) correction and avoidance of dehydration
(3) humidification of dry environments
(4) lifestyle changes in the use of caffeine, alcohol and smoking
(5) avoidance of dietary items that may contribute to gastroesophageal reflux
(6) screening for allergies affecting the respiratory tract
(7) identification and management of medical conditions that may affect the larynx
(8) training in how to avoid or minimize high risk (phonotraumatic) situations
A rule of thumb for voice rest in a patient with hoarseness is to continue it until the person feels comfortable humming (Wood et al).
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