Are American Idol contestants damaging their vocal chords?

Going from singing in the shower to competing on American Idol can add a lot of stress to the contestants’ voices. Therefore, American Idol contestants need to be vigilant about taking care of their vocal chords while they are on the show, and for the rest of their careers.

Voice lessons teach artists how to sing and perform, while speech therapy focuses on educating artists how to use their throats so they don’t put excessive pressure on their vocal chords.

It is vital that the singers have vocal coaches in order to understand how to protect their voices by learning how to properly warm up, what to do prior to a performance, and what to do if they become sick.

Dr. Larian explains that it is important for the contestants to rest their voices in between performances, talk as little as possible, and avoid alcohol and partying, to avoid damaging their vocal chords.

Hot tea, honey, humidifiers, and drinking plenty of water really help to keep the vocal chords healthy and ready for a performance. Additionally, gargling with alkalol really helps to get rid of the flem that builds up in the throat.

Since the American Idol contestants are just beginning their careers, they can prevent future vocal cord complications by creating good singing habits now.