Why whispering isn’t always good for your voice
Medical experts warn that whispering to soothe a sore throat can actually cause more strain on the vocal cords and neck muscles. Prolonged whispering may lead to conditions like muscle tension dysphonia or the development of vocal nodules.
Why it matters
Public health awareness regarding vocal hygiene can prevent long-term damage and the need for surgical intervention.
Experts say whispering can lead to more strain as we tend to use the neck muscles and voice box more forcefully to produce sound. (Envato Elements pic)
BANGI: Many people instinctively lower their voices to a whisper when they have a sore throat or are feeling hoarse, believing it gives their vocal cords a chance to rest.
But according to voice specialists, whispering for prolonged periods may do more harm than good.
Dr Nadhirah Shakri, a surgeon and clinical lecturer in otorhinolaryngology-head and neck surgery, said whispering is often misunderstood as a safer alternative to speaking normally.
“Many do not realise that whispering can actually place strain on the voice box. When whispering, we tend to use the neck muscles and voice box forcefully to produce sound,” she told Bernama.
“Done repeatedly or over a prolonged period, it could cause tension in the voice box and disrupt healthy voice production.”
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