BWW Blog: Annalise Prentiss - How to Cure a Sore Throat

Performing in musicals definitely has its perks. You can earn money, spend time with friends, strengthen skills, make audiences happy, and of course do what you love! But there is one serious challenge that all actors/actresses are all too familiar with: sore throats. Sore throats are very common, especially with the tentative weather patterns and sudden temperature changes happening now. So to help you cure a sore throat and go back to jamming out to Broadway each day, here are a few tips of my own, along with some other facts I learned after doing some research.

1. Gargle with Saltwater: Probably one of the most popular remedies. Saltwater helps to loosen mucus which helps to flush out bacteria and anything else that causes your sore throat. I recommend a ½ teaspoon of salt in 1 cup of water. If saltwater does not please you, try some honey in it, but believe me, it helps.

2. Cough Drops: Careful with this one. Some cough drops are as effective as pieces of candy (which isn't a lot). Doctors suggest cough drops made with menthol or eucalyptus.

3. Drink Tea: No. Not iced tea. Warm, hot, tea with a touch of honey. Most people prefer different kinds of tea, so I won't say a specific brand, but tea moistens the throat which helps to release bacteria.

4. NO COUGHING: Despite how much a sore throat may make you want to cough, don't. When you cough, your vocal cords slam together. If this happens regularly, it can create vocal damage which is a lot worse than a simple sore throat.

5. Do Not Clear Your Throat: Clearing your throat has the same long-term effect as coughing; however, clearing your throat is the act of your vocal cords grinding together instead of just slamming together.

6. DRINK WATER: Just like tea, water moistens your throat and loosens mucus which flushes bad bacteria. Water also helps you to stay hydrated in case you have a more serious illness than just a sore throat.

7. See a Doctor: If your sore throat continues for several days, consult a doctor. I hate to say it, but it could be as bad as strep throat, strains, or vocal chord damage.

8. Consult a Vocal Coach: If you are straining your voice consistently, perhaps it is time to consult a vocal coach/voice teacher. They can help you discover your break and teach you new techniques to ensure that you are using your voice without harming it.

9. Rest Your Voice: Finally, if your throat hurts, don't push it. Stop singing (I know. It's hard.) If you've had a long rehearsal day, it's best to come home and rest your voice.

Of course there are many more possibilities on how to get rid of a nasty, sore throat, but these remedies are some of the easier ways. After all, your voice is one of the most essential pieces of performing, so you want to keep it as healthy as possible!!