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(HealthNewsDigest.com)...Tis the season for celebration! Whether it is caroling around the Christmas tree, or simply talking and laughing with friends and family, waking up with a scratchy sore throat can put a damper on your holiday cheer.
Whatever the cause, it is time for a quick fix! According to a recent survey by Harris Interactive for Cepacol sore throat-soothing products, 21 percent of adults feel a persons voice is as important as their looks, so now is the time to get yourself (and your voice) in tip-top shape, so you can get back to the holiday festivities.
"As crucial as our voices are to our ability to communicate, we use them so often that its easy to take them for granted, especially during the holiday season," says Renee Grant-Williams, vocal coach to business leaders and political candidates, and whose high profile client list has included country/pop singers Faith Hill, the Dixie Chicks and Christina Aguilera. "You should give your voice the same amount of attention as you give your looks, so that the sound of your voice will be pleasing and welcoming to others and help make the kind of impression you want to make."
Twenty-four percent (24%) of adults surveyed experienced sore throats from voice strain, including screaming at a sporting event/concert, talking in a noisy, crowded room, singing or yelling. Clearing your throat frequently can also cause voice strain, and oddly enough, whispering can be almost as damaging as yelling.
To keep your voice going strong through the New Year, Grant-Williams offers some throat saving tips:
-- Proper breathing and good support are important in protecting your voice from the effects of overuse. This helps take the pressure off your throat by engaging the strong muscles of your lower body, instead of those around your neck and throat.
-- Limit your contact with people who are sick, especially during the cold and flu season, and get an annual flu shot (if available).
-- Avoid clearing your throat regularly.
-- Be conscious of any pressure you put on your vocal cords, especially since whispering is almost as damaging as yelling.
-- Always keep the shouting matches during Sunday afternoon sports to a minimum!
-- Soothe irritated throats with serious sore throat medicine, such as Cepacol Extra Strength Lozenges or Cepacol Dual Action Sore Throat Sprays.
For more information on throat saving tips visit www.cepacol.com.
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