Ever tried to yell a goal and found your voice cracked or gone? That’s voice loss, and it can hit anyone, especially when you’re on a noisy stadium or doing a post‑match interview. It’s more than just a sore throat; it’s when your vocal cords can’t vibrate properly, so you sound weak, hoarse, or lose sound altogether.
The good news? Most voice loss cases are easy to fix and prevent. All you need is a bit of awareness and a few practical habits. Below we break down why it happens and what you can do right now to protect your voice.
1. Over‑talking or shouting – Cheering for a team, coaching from the sidelines, or speaking loudly in a crowded bar puts a lot of strain on your vocal cords. If you keep raising your voice, the cords get tired and inflamed.
2. Cold or allergies – A runny nose or sinus drip makes you clear your throat constantly, which irritates the cords. The mucus can also coat them, reducing their ability to vibrate.
3. Dry air – Indoor arenas or winter stadiums often have low humidity. Dry air dries out the lining of your throat, making it easier to get a scratchy voice.
4. Improper breathing – Using shallow chest breathing while shouting forces your throat to work harder. Deep diaphragmatic breathing gives you more power without the strain.
5. Smoking or vaping – The chemicals irritate the throat and cause chronic inflammation, leading to frequent hoarseness.
Hydrate like a pro: Sip warm water or herbal tea all day. Aim for at least eight glasses a day, and avoid caffeine or alcohol right before you need to shout.
Rest your voice: If you feel hoarse, give your vocal cords a break. Whispering actually strains them more, so speak in a normal tone or stay silent for a few hours.
Use steam: A quick steam inhalation (a bowl of hot water with a towel over your head) loosens mucus and moisturizes the cords.
Practice proper breathing: Breathe from your belly, not your chest. Try a simple exercise – inhale for four counts, hold for two, then exhale slowly for six. It gives you better vocal support when you need to project.
Warm‑up your voice: Before a big match or a post‑game interview, hum a low note or do gentle lip trills. This gets the cords moving without shock.
Avoid irritants: If you can, stay away from smoke, strong perfumes, or dusty environments. Use a humidifier at home during dry months.
For soccer players who spend a lot of time on the field, a quick vocal check after a game can save weeks of downtime. Ask yourself: Did I shout too much? Do I feel a tickle in my throat? If the answer is yes, follow the steps above.
Remember, a healthy voice is part of an athlete’s toolkit. It helps you communicate with teammates, coach, and fans. By staying hydrated, resting when needed, and using proper breathing, you’ll keep your voice ready for every “Goal!” moment.
Olly Murs halted his Glasgow show at the OVO Hydro after 20 minutes, telling fans his voice had gone. The 40-year-old apologized on Instagram, saying it was the first time in 15 years he had to leave mid-show. He plans to see a doctor before scheduled dates in Manchester, Birmingham, and London. Fans await details on next steps for the Glasgow date.
Read more