I m a singer with problematic bronchitis. It really sets my chords back. It can take awhile to rebuild my range and with gigs on the calender its pretty upsetting. Currently going through that now and it really brings me down. Ive got a gig or two coming uo in a couple weeks and its not looking good. Cancelling is not much of a real option. Im going to try these ideas with a little more persistence and pray I get at least 80% back
Warm, almost hot lemon water with a touch of raw honey, gives you that bump of vitamin C, plus steam, plus raw honey is actually a help in reducing allergies( should That be your culprit). Warm almost steamy water, half squeezed lemon, dollop of raw honey, drink & enjoy. Other Health benefits are numerous as well.
What worked best for u.? I have heavy mucus on vocal cords...otherwise cords very healthy. Saw it on a strobe...was amazed 1)how much white blob mucus there was 2) I could sing at all w it!
@@jayclarke9611 I thought I was drinking enough water, turns out I definitely was not! Trust me when I say it did wonders. Secondly, steaming once in a while relaxed both my body and consequently my vocal chords. It's better for overall health (or hot baths) so definitely a recommendation!!
I have had chronic, post nasal drip as long as I can remember. Couple that with naturally sticky phlegm and I am a lifelong throat clearer. My hydration level makes no difference. I've tried gargling, but the issue is well below where the solution reaches without literally drowning. I've learned to close down just enough to increase the airflow pressure without allowing creation of any significant sound. It just sounds like blowing hard through a straw. Imitating the motion of sliding from low notes to high notes can allow clearing the chords from front to back.
@@yarizasanchez4150 same i just started a singing class and realized i’m the only one clearing my throat and swallowing before every time i sing…it suckssss i feel like it’s holding my progress back too
Orange juice works wonders at cutting through the mucus so that it can be spit out - unless of course your throat is super scratchy. In that case, it might be irritating instead of soothing.
I make a tea of , Hot water ( of course ) in large mug . Honey, about a tablespoon of fresh ginger , Cayenne pepper , cinnamon , the juice of one whole lemon . I mix them all together and sip it often enough to keep the depths of the throat coated . Do this once or twice a day . It takes a while but it works .
One thing that works for me is nasal wash, idk if that’s how you say it in English. But it does wonders with the rest of stuff here, also ginger tea (2-3 cups a day are healthy for a singer) and, another one is one lime juice with the same a mouth of honey ooooof. Love it.
Hi fantastic video! Thanks:-) I have been using Bromelain capsules for phlegm and it works great!! The only thing is that it works "too well" lol ending up with my voice being so clear that it's a bit hoarse. I was taking 1 capsule twice a day an hour or so before food. Should it ba taken daily? Should I reduce the daily dose until it still works but voice not hoarse...? Any advice very gratefully received :-)
Hello Dan. From my personal experience, the best remedy to stop the phlegm, is avoiding dairy products. I'm a milk lover, but ever since I stopped drinking it, the phlegm (always coming down my throat) just STOPPED. Cheers!
@@bloodfate9043 hi! So, in reality milk has a lot of calcium, but (I know this is gonna sound strange) it also leeches calcium from your bones, which cancels out the calcium that you got from milk. Plant based milks (my favourites are coconut and oat) are a better alternative for cow milk, and there are also lots of other sources of calcium you can try!!😊 but if you don't care about that and you like dairy go ahead and have it, it's not like I'll be knocking on your door and forcing you to throw away all of your dairy!!😂😂 (one thing though- if you do wanna get rid of your dairy please give it to a friend who drinks it, as just throwing it away would be a huge waste. OR just finish what you have and don't eat it after that😁) hope this was helpful!
Thanks for the video! some great tips, i tried the gargling water and it worked pretty good! im also excited to try Bromelain and some water vapor, gonna get myself some oils and all I am never sick but i always have alot of phlegm everyday plus asthma and it's quite annoying i always warm up trying to get rid of the phlegm before singing and or growling and its such a struggle really. so i appreciate these tips and i subscribed ofc thanks again!
Ever since I got "mysteriously" sick towards the end of December in 2019 where it felt like I was going to die and coughed to the point of blood mixed in with my mucus(tmi sorry) my body has never been the same... I get sick frequently, and it always starts with an unnecessary amount of mucus followed by whatever else.. I dunno if I'll ever go back to normal but these tips are helpful for making these new every day hassles of my life a bit easier. Thank you
I'm by no means a singer. I can't carry a tune in a bucket! I had spine surgery on my neck 10 weeks ago. The right laryngeal nerve was damaged paralyzing my right vocal cord. Since the operation I have had a lot of mucus build up when I go to bed and generally better during the day. The past day or so I have noticed more build up during the day. I tried warm salt water tonight and it seems a little better so far but I'm going to bookmark this video and get the things I need for the concoction adding things to the warm salt water. My bipap also has a humidifier built in that I don't generally use but I'm going to start to use that and see if that helps. Thank for the information! Maybe some miracle I'll be able to actually sing if/when the nerve heals. ps For all those of you who can sing I envy you!!! I use to make people run for the hills at karaoke!!! LOL
@@DrDanRobinson Thank you! I'm actually noticing more and more and more of my tone and volume returning each day. It's all the phlegm build up at night that's really annoying me. Thanks again for the info and kind words!
Hi Dr Dan, Thanks for the tips!! :) When exactly do we use the Steam Vaporiser? In your previous replies to others, you mentioned after Vocal load. In my case, im trying to thin the mucus before singing. Should i steam it 15 to 20 mins right before singing then? Also re the Bromelian, something to take regularly or does it work if i take it right before singing as well? Many Thanks!
I’ve been a singer all throughout my life. But I also have asthma and therefore I have to take a lot of medicines that mess with my voice. I just saw an ENT back in November, but I forgot to ask him how to reduce phlegm from coming up into my voice while I’m singing. I’m taking an acid reflux reducer, my sister has a friend who is a speech specialist and she recommended that I try doing vocal exercises while I’m taking a shower. It helps for a little bit. I do drink coffee in the morning to wake me up. Maybe I should quit at least for a couple weeks and see how that goes. I admit I don’t really drink enough water but I’m working on that. I also gargle warm salt, ginger water. Both that and the shower thing works but I’ve just learned this extremely difficult song that demands a lot of breath support. And since I have asthma, my lungs have trouble cooperating with me. I feel like I need to clear my throat very hard just to get rid of some of the phlegm. I know that’s a horrible thing to do for my vocal cords, but I don’t know what else to do. I might try that remedy that you said with a little bit of salt, baking powder and I guess syrup. I could try that and drinking less coffee and more water and see how that goes for a couple weeks. If those don’t work is there anything else I can try without having to get more medicines?
A voiceover coach recommended eating a granny smith apple to clear the throat. It works quite well. Peel, slice, and put in a sandwich bag with a bit of lemon to take to a gig. Works quite well. I used to just take a whole apple but found I would sometimes get choked on bits of peel. Unfortunately, the peel adds to the overall astringent effect of the apple so peeling is a trade off.
I just came over from Video Creator's channel. Love the collaboration you did together. I found your discussion very helpful. I batch record tons of videos so I am always looking to improve and care for my voice especially because I am always clearing my throat or coughing to make it sound better. THank you for these tips!!
I'm a voice over and found this video because at the mo (January, northern hemisphere) I have constant mucus in the back of my throat and it's really affecting my lower range. Even after thorough warm up. Brilliant video. Lots of new things to try. I live at altitude and while I used to be at 2100m and am now down at 700, it does tend to be dryer - so the humidifier / vaporiser thing is a great idea. Thanks Dr Dan. Subscribed :-)
The water glass is right here on my desk, as always. Been taking sips as I listen and watch.... Interesting, though. I often mix a bit of my own, personalized, "salt mix," consisting of 50% Potassium (K) and 50% Sodium (Na). A few crystals of this at the bottom of the glass gives it a nice salty flavor for sipping. Of course, we need about 5,000 mg of K and 5,000 mg of Na each day, so I never run out. Phlegm, such a sour name for Mucin, which is a highly potent antibacterial, which not only kills bacteria in the sinuses, lungs and throat, it can also remove dirt, dust particles and even viruses (virii?) out of the body, and into the stomach, where everything bad for you is killed by the highly acidic environment. Mucin is probably the first line of defense against disease for the body. When you're sick, of course, phlegm (Mucin) is your best friend. Your body produces extra to help you deal with a virus (usually) attack. The only downside is trying to sleep at night with the coughing - it's difficult. In these rare times, I'll resort to an OTC medication. I usually only need it one or two nights, long enough to get through the roughest part. You may not look very pretty at the office, with all of that phlegm dripping out of you, but then, if you're sick, you shouldn't be at the office. Go home! Grab some Kleenexes, a hot beverage, and have a seat in front of your TV. And drink plenty of water.
I hate water. Why can't coffee be good for us? :-) I had the worst sinusitis 4 years ago. 3 rounds of antibiotics did not help. Finally, I started CLEANING my nose with warm water, just inhaling it and letting it fall out the other nostril. Sounds gross but works. I have improved this technique now by learning it should be boiled or distilled water but, in general actually washing out the stuff works.
Me too! I think it's my allergies. I deal with excess mucus on my vocal chords that fucks with my singing most of the time and it's been almost a year now that I've had it. 😢
I’m not a pro singer, I just like to sing, and I’m here because I’ve always had way too much phlegm at all times. Constantly clearing my throat, and sometimes it feel like I can’t breathe through my nose it’s so thick. Right before he said never clear your throat, I cleared my throat and the familiar sharp sting in my throat that happens probably every 10 minutes, he said “don’t clear your throat” and I swear my entire life flashed before my eyes...😨
This is an older video but I'm having problems finding an answer to my question and reach out in hope someone has some advice. I'm not sick, but still struggle while singing EVERY TIME. I'm being forced to clear my throat every few minutes from slight plegm over the vocal chords to allow clear singing. It took me years to realize that most people don't have this problem. What can I do and why is this a problem for me?! Please help, my singing is taking a more public route this year.
Tobu Rae Hi! Sorry you haven’t gotten an answer for awhile. I’m a junior in high school and do musical theatre. I am HUGE on keeping my vocal cords in health. I’ve never heard of this before, but here’s some things to try. Make sure you’re drinking LOTS of water everyday to ensure the mucus in your throat is thinned and cleared away over time. Also, try to cut some dairy out of your diet because this puts mucus back into your system and will reverse anything you’re doing to reduce mucus in the throat. If you have time before you sing, warm up your voice with some vocal warm ups to ensure you’re not stressing your voice to make clear sound. I hope some of these help. (Also, in the video he mentions steaming, WHICH IS A NUMBER ONE FOR SINGERS) Good luck!
Thanks Hannah Elizabeth for your care and time in a reply. Dr Dan also replied on a diff video, and I think your tips are awesome. I also have been forcing myself to "swallow" with a sound like Dr Dan said instead of clearing my throat, and it seems to help not get more phlegm building up again in a few minutes. He is awesome and you are too! Thanks!
I have the exact same problem that you have and here is what I found to be the cause. Post nasal drip and Acid reflux. Check to see if you have one of those issues. For post nasal drip try nasal irrigation with saline water. However, for acid reflux is more complicated and should be direct by a doctor.
I'm craving ice cream lol but I know it's not good for singers. I'm not doing any vocalizing until tomorrow so will I be fine if I have some today or will it still effect me tomorrow?
There is such a thing as Almond Milk & Coconut Milk ice creams, as well as Soy Milk, and they are delicious. Dr. Dan say Soy products may create mucus as well however.
Will the steam vapor treatment and gargle recipe help congested sinuses due to allergy as well? I'm taking decongestant as I cannot take antihistamine drugs. I sound like an elephant is sitting on my face and I am supposed to lead a song tomorrow!
Herbal alternatives can sometimes provide relief for certain vocal issues, but it's essential to remember that individual responses may vary. While some people might find relief from specific herbal remedies, others may not experience any noticeable benefits. It's also important to note that I'm not a medical doctor, so please consider consulting a healthcare professional before trying any new supplements or remedies. That said, here are some herbal alternatives that have been used to support vocal health: 1. Slippery Elm: Slippery elm bark is commonly used to soothe irritated or inflamed tissues, such as the throat. It's often found in lozenges or teas. 2. Licorice Root: Licorice root is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe a sore throat. It can be consumed as a tea or found in lozenges. 3. Marshmallow Root: Marshmallow root has a soothing effect on the throat and is often used to alleviate irritation or dryness. It's typically consumed as a tea or in lozenges. 4. Ginger: Ginger has been used to reduce inflammation and can help soothe the throat. Drinking ginger tea or consuming ginger lozenges may provide relief. 5. Peppermint: Peppermint is known for its refreshing and soothing properties, which may help clear mucus and ease throat irritation. Peppermint tea or lozenges are popular options. 6. Thyme: Thyme has been used as a herbal remedy for respiratory issues and may help reduce mucus production. Drinking thyme tea or using thyme essential oil (diluted and used safely) are some ways to use this herb. 7. Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is known for its expectorant properties and can help clear mucus. Inhalation of eucalyptus essential oil using a diffuser or a steam inhalation may provide relief. Always be cautious with herbal remedies, and make sure you're using them correctly and safely. If you have any allergies, are taking medications, or have any pre-existing health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal alternatives. Remember that herbal remedies may provide temporary relief, but it's essential to address the root cause of your vocal issues with the help of a healthcare professional or voice specialist.
mine is the worst, I have a swollen bolbs by the two side . I can't now sing more than ones. the phlegm and muscu is much I need a help. because i have much music presentation this time around and its standing as a hindrance. I will love to be adviced on what to do
Hi doctor dan thank you for sharing vedio im 1st time to Wacth your vedio.coz im looking guys teaching how to improve the vioce but not realy help . for me . im glad i found you .but i have another question. The gargle i saw your vedio it can help .to my nasal problem? From my sinussitis.sometimes i feel have sharp to my vocal chord. when i singing. interrupt to my voice distroyed my singing .then i coughing because the sharp .i wanna rid of it how can i cure this .i wanna back my voice. My voice. strong and a bit husky voice and high sudenly gone coz im. Sick before from my sinusitis but i been midication from the doctor. Before Then im healing five years not singing .so i wanna back to sing again i miss my voice i can sing male and fmale high and low voice i can sing .but i try to warmp up thank you i feel my vioce a bit improve. Coz i try pratice song alana miles shania twain it hard to sing. So i try pratice warmp up yah.. Realy it help. My voice as long not attact my sinusitis ..but i need cure 1st my problem ..anyway im from canada but im pilipina. Im came from philipines im maried cadanian he is a musician so i try singing hes band .i wish you can help me more.. To imorove my voice and. Cure my sinusitis stick to my nasal the flame it sharp to my vocal. Chord .thank you very much you are awesome teacher of the voice..pls. Reply how to cure my sinusitis.thnxs. a lot
What do you do for phlegm in the sinuses? It always seems like there's some phelgm that vibrates down into my nasopharynx during sustained or high notes, causing them to waver or crack.
Try a Neti pot. Use distilled water and a little bit of salt specifically made for nasal irrigation. I would do this twice per day but not right before having to sing. Try it for a few days or so. It takes a bit of practice to get the technique. You want to tilt the head far forward while tilting the head far sideways toward the nostril you want the water to drain out of, so the water does not drain out the back of your mouth.
When I was younger I had to get surgery where they put these kinds of plugs near my lungs. They put them so close to my aorta that everytime I laugh or sing mucus builds up and I have a coughing spell. I started singing when I was very young and it has gotten me through some hard times. My life dream is to be a singer and I have been trying to find ways to solve this issue. Here's to hoping.
I have a question about vocal fry. I have it all the time whenever I’m talking or singing or doing lip rolls. What can that be? I always try to sing with a open sound, a even larynx but no the flemy sound always comes!!
Mine comes from clearing my throat and coughing usually after gargling salt water with too much salt. It clears the mucus but damages your throat badly.
Iam suffering from coughing around my neck vocal cord. It makes difficulties in singing as we'll as speaking in loud voice. My vocal cord continuously producing mucus, cough etc. It makes my voice hoarsed. it becames 4 months.How can I do for escape form this prblm?? Plese suggest and help me...plz plz
I have a chronic condition - always mucus on my vocal chords no matter what I do. I have lyme disease and just bringing this up makes all of my doctors weird. It sucks.
I have absolutely no problem with huffing and coughing and getting all of that crap right up to the top of my throat, I cough and cough and bring it all up, but I can't seem to bring it into my mouth and spit it out. I just end up swallowing it over and over and over again.
Allergies can make a person have that phlegm as well...not just someone who is under the weather. I suffer with terrible sinus issues and at times get that in the back of my throat and cant even get through a song without spitting that junk out
It's so depressing :( I really didnt think some mucus could do that much. Like I have around-the-clock allergies all year, but I dont use like a humidifier, gargle with salt water or a netty pot or anything, and I drink caffeine a lot to get through long days at work....but now that I'm taking singing more seriously and have lost some of my singing voice from phlegm and overuse at work, and it's been like a whole season of sore throats and not being able to sing a song :( even some phlegm really does affect your voice!!! I have started gargling salt water more and it deff has brought most of my voice back, but I still can't sing some higher or really low notes right now
What are your thoughts on slippery elm? I just purchased the lozenge form of this, and although it was highly touted, I haven’t seen a lot of benefit thus far.
hot lemon spring water n honey...when im not drinking water/green tea by day n beer by nite. for sinus drainage i boil water or cook soup n hold face in the steam n breath in. ive snorted hot water when i was young. freaked my mom out but dr said it was a good idea but to use salt water🍻
I still don't understand. You you mean hold the liquid in throat and do norhinf eise? Or let air just "bubble" as you breathe out the air? I'm new to all of this.
Hello Sir, I have no fever.But I feel like there is something in my throat and it makes me feel very uncomfortable.This has been the same for over 2 weeks now. This also makes me feel hot from inside, though when asked, my friends say that my temperature is normal to them. So after asking a few people I understood that only I can feel that I am hot from inside. Please help me. I have tried different medicines like Dayquil, Nyquil, Claritin, Flonase and also gargling, drinking hot water etc.. Nothing has helped me. Is this normal?
Thank you very much for your reply. Sir but I am not a singer. I have consulted a doctor and she told me that something in my throat has enlarged. She also said it is a mucus because of some allergy. I have been taken allergic reliefs and also Mucinex (to reduce the Mucex). Is this all normal? Because this is scaring me a lot. Please help me with a suggestion. Thank you very much :)
My doctor told me once, to vaporise with salty water, allso there is a mint oil you can get in the pharmacy. Also there is an item, to wash out the upper airflow with slightly salty water. I would say avoid drinking hot and cold stuff too. And for the symphtoms Calcium is really good. Not the hard tablet, but the one you can put in water, eather the fizzy or the liquid one. Allso good in a short term for allergies... But only reduces the symphoms!
I used the gargle method with the syrup, baking soda and salt, work amazing now I can sing freely for my show tonight! Thanks a lot 👍
You're welcome Joshua Sheppard. Thanks for watching.
Which syrup??
Chapagain Manoj maple
Lol imma do that with my 100% canadian
I used warm water, salt, baking powder, and raw honey...it works....THANKS
I m a singer with problematic bronchitis. It really sets my chords back. It can take awhile to rebuild my range and with gigs on the calender its pretty upsetting. Currently going through that now and it really brings me down. Ive got a gig or two coming uo in a couple weeks and its not looking good. Cancelling is not much of a real option. Im going to try these ideas with a little more persistence and pray I get at least 80% back
how did things work out for you??
Warm, almost hot lemon water with a touch of raw honey, gives you that bump of vitamin C, plus steam, plus raw honey is actually a help in reducing allergies( should That be your culprit). Warm almost steamy water, half squeezed lemon, dollop of raw honey, drink & enjoy. Other Health benefits are numerous as well.
Be careful lemon has sulfates and naturally occurring salicylate, which can cause allergies if you are allergic to aspirin.
Steamy shower might give relief
Appreciate this response. Easy peasy for a singer with darn seasonal allergies! Love raw honey because of its medicinal properties ❤
I have so much phlegm even when I'm not sick 😬 Thank you for providing me with more insight!
You're so welcome!
What worked best for u.?
I have heavy mucus on vocal cords...otherwise cords very healthy.
Saw it on a strobe...was amazed
1)how much white blob mucus there was
2) I could sing at all w it!
@@jayclarke9611 I thought I was drinking enough water, turns out I definitely was not! Trust me when I say it did wonders. Secondly, steaming once in a while relaxed both my body and consequently my vocal chords. It's better for overall health (or hot baths) so definitely a recommendation!!
we need more people like him in this world
Weeks after getting over a cold....I still have crap in my throat
same, dAmN aLlErGiEs
Same.. Really annoying. And swallowing doesn't help cause it seems to get stuck somewhere down there the throat
@@Dansk55 what are the tips to get rid of it?
@@spagetd1526exactly it makes me sing so much worse 😭
I have had chronic, post nasal drip as long as I can remember. Couple that with naturally sticky phlegm and I am a lifelong throat clearer. My hydration level makes no difference. I've tried gargling, but the issue is well below where the solution reaches without literally drowning.
I've learned to close down just enough to increase the airflow pressure without allowing creation of any significant sound. It just sounds like blowing hard through a straw.
Imitating the motion of sliding from low notes to high notes can allow clearing the chords from front to back.
I recently started singing this year and my goodness I have this and its the WORST! lol glad I'm not alone
@@yarizasanchez4150 same i just started a singing class and realized i’m the only one clearing my throat and swallowing before every time i sing…it suckssss i feel like it’s holding my progress back too
@@scarlettmauner475 yes! I feel so self conscious about it. And I feel the same really slowing me down
Ooooooommmgg that helped so much I just did itttt
Orange juice works wonders at cutting through the mucus so that it can be spit out - unless of course your throat is super scratchy. In that case, it might be irritating instead of soothing.
I make a tea of , Hot water ( of course ) in large mug . Honey, about a tablespoon of fresh ginger , Cayenne pepper , cinnamon , the juice of one whole lemon . I mix them all together and sip it often enough to keep the depths of the throat coated . Do this once or twice a day . It takes a while but it works .
Thank you, just recovering from an upper respiratory infection.
One thing that works for me is nasal wash, idk if that’s how you say it in English. But it does wonders with the rest of stuff here, also ginger tea (2-3 cups a day are healthy for a singer) and, another one is one lime juice with the same a mouth of honey ooooof. Love it.
I have allergies, so mucus really builds up on my nose every single day...
Spider Boy, the following video about allergies may prove helpful - th-cam.com/video/gx1Ut9J-OO4/w-d-xo.html
Oh my god. You are a lifesaver.🙏🏽 you have earned yourself a new sub.
Forget being sick, my problem is just during a session
of singing, I can sometimes have phlegm interfere.
Doc, your opinion would be greatly appreciated: Will a nebulizer using sterile saline solution work as well as simple steam?
Hi fantastic video! Thanks:-) I have been using Bromelain capsules for phlegm and it works great!! The only thing is that it works "too well" lol ending up with my voice being so clear that it's a bit hoarse. I was taking 1 capsule twice a day an hour or so before food. Should it ba taken daily? Should I reduce the daily dose until it still works but voice not hoarse...? Any advice very gratefully received :-)
Dan, I appreciate this. How many milligram's do you recommend of the Bromelain?
Hello Dan. From my personal experience, the best remedy to stop the phlegm, is avoiding dairy products. I'm a milk lover, but ever since I stopped drinking it, the phlegm (always coming down my throat) just STOPPED.
Cheers!
Stay away from cheese as well and butter. All dairy is bad. Let's face it people, if you're not a baby why are you still drinking it?
BklynGirl it helps ur bones and it has like calcium i think
@@bloodfate9043 hi! So, in reality milk has a lot of calcium, but (I know this is gonna sound strange) it also leeches calcium from your bones, which cancels out the calcium that you got from milk. Plant based milks (my favourites are coconut and oat) are a better alternative for cow milk, and there are also lots of other sources of calcium you can try!!😊 but if you don't care about that and you like dairy go ahead and have it, it's not like I'll be knocking on your door and forcing you to throw away all of your dairy!!😂😂 (one thing though- if you do wanna get rid of your dairy please give it to a friend who drinks it, as just throwing it away would be a huge waste. OR just finish what you have and don't eat it after that😁) hope this was helpful!
I like milk .
Such a pity😞
@@bklyngirl6995 cause it's yummy and good for bones?
Thank you for the information- it’s informational
You're welcome
Thanks for the video! some great tips, i tried the gargling water and it worked pretty good! im also excited to try Bromelain and some water vapor, gonna get myself some oils and all
I am never sick but i always have alot of phlegm everyday plus asthma and it's quite annoying i always warm up trying to get rid of the phlegm before singing and or growling and its such a struggle really.
so i appreciate these tips and i subscribed ofc thanks again!
Ever since I got "mysteriously" sick towards the end of December in 2019 where it felt like I was going to die and coughed to the point of blood mixed in with my mucus(tmi sorry) my body has never been the same... I get sick frequently, and it always starts with an unnecessary amount of mucus followed by whatever else.. I dunno if I'll ever go back to normal but these tips are helpful for making these new every day hassles of my life a bit easier. Thank you
I HIGHLY recommend seeing an ENT for a full assessment and possible diagnosis.
Here is another advice. Go to the ocean in the morning and inhale salt air because salt has a lot of benefits
Around that time is when I started having trouble breathing and my voice declined. I’m so breathy and hoarse now.
I like everything he said and I believe it because I've done some of these things and they actually work
I'm by no means a singer. I can't carry a tune in a bucket! I had spine surgery on my neck 10 weeks ago. The right laryngeal nerve was damaged paralyzing my right vocal cord. Since the operation I have had a lot of mucus build up when I go to bed and generally better during the day. The past day or so I have noticed more build up during the day. I tried warm salt water tonight and it seems a little better so far but I'm going to bookmark this video and get the things I need for the concoction adding things to the warm salt water. My bipap also has a humidifier built in that I don't generally use but I'm going to start to use that and see if that helps. Thank for the information! Maybe some miracle I'll be able to actually sing if/when the nerve heals.
ps For all those of you who can sing I envy you!!! I use to make people run for the hills at karaoke!!! LOL
I hope you're voice improves soon, Mike.
@@DrDanRobinson Thank you! I'm actually noticing more and more and more of my tone and volume returning each day. It's all the phlegm build up at night that's really annoying me. Thanks again for the info and kind words!
Hi Dr Dan, Thanks for the tips!! :) When exactly do we use the Steam Vaporiser? In your previous replies to others, you mentioned after Vocal load. In my case, im trying to thin the mucus before singing. Should i steam it 15 to 20 mins right before singing then?
Also re the Bromelian, something to take regularly or does it work if i take it right before singing as well?
Many Thanks!
If you absolutely need to steam prior to singing, I would advise that you do so with a 30-45 minute gap between your steaming and your singing.
I’ve been a singer all throughout my life. But I also have asthma and therefore I have to take a lot of medicines that mess with my voice. I just saw an ENT back in November, but I forgot to ask him how to reduce phlegm from coming up into my voice while I’m singing. I’m taking an acid reflux reducer, my sister has a friend who is a speech specialist and she recommended that I try doing vocal exercises while I’m taking a shower. It helps for a little bit. I do drink coffee in the morning to wake me up. Maybe I should quit at least for a couple weeks and see how that goes. I admit I don’t really drink enough water but I’m working on that. I also gargle warm salt, ginger water. Both that and the shower thing works but I’ve just learned this extremely difficult song that demands a lot of breath support. And since I have asthma, my lungs have trouble cooperating with me. I feel like I need to clear my throat very hard just to get rid of some of the phlegm. I know that’s a horrible thing to do for my vocal cords, but I don’t know what else to do. I might try that remedy that you said with a little bit of salt, baking powder and I guess syrup. I could try that and drinking less coffee and more water and see how that goes for a couple weeks. If those don’t work is there anything else I can try without having to get more medicines?
A voiceover coach recommended eating a granny smith apple to clear the throat. It works quite well. Peel, slice, and put in a sandwich bag with a bit of lemon to take to a gig. Works quite well. I used to just take a whole apple but found I would sometimes get choked on bits of peel. Unfortunately, the peel adds to the overall astringent effect of the apple so peeling is a trade off.
I literally struggle with it right now. Thanks TH-cam algorithms. And thanks Dr. Dan!
Gargle formula worked great for me! Thank you so much!
Glad it helped!
Thank you!!
You're welcome!
I just came over from Video Creator's channel. Love the collaboration you did together. I found your discussion very helpful. I batch record tons of videos so I am always looking to improve and care for my voice especially because I am always clearing my throat or coughing to make it sound better. THank you for these tips!!
Sea Moss helps tremendously 🙏🏽
I found that gargling silenty with you favorite soda can help too. That CO2 in the soda can help you clear your throat.
Very informative, thanks alot
Sitting in the sun and drinking water helps a lot too. Thank you Dr Dan
I'm not unwell or have a cough but i've had phlem problems for years it was actually one of the reasons that i had to quit singing years ago! 😔
good advice
Personally, I fast (not eat) on the day I perform. It eliminates phlegm drastically. I’ll then have food after the show.
this is amazing info!
I'm a voice over and found this video because at the mo (January, northern hemisphere) I have constant mucus in the back of my throat and it's really affecting my lower range. Even after thorough warm up. Brilliant video. Lots of new things to try. I live at altitude and while I used to be at 2100m and am now down at 700, it does tend to be dryer - so the humidifier / vaporiser thing is a great idea. Thanks Dr Dan. Subscribed :-)
Wonderful!
Wondering why mucinex is a last resort? Does it affect the vocal cords in some way? Wondering because I’ve been taking it and my voice feels brittle.
Hi Dr. Dan. What was that green steamer you used?
Bosistos Personal Inhaler
Thank you so much
Appreciate you posting this video. Very helpful. Would love to know whose voice that is doing your “Sound Check” clip. She sounds so familiar
Glad it was helpful!
The water glass is right here on my desk, as always. Been taking sips as I listen and watch....
Interesting, though. I often mix a bit of my own, personalized, "salt mix," consisting of 50% Potassium (K) and 50% Sodium (Na). A few crystals of this at the bottom of the glass gives it a nice salty flavor for sipping. Of course, we need about 5,000 mg of K and 5,000 mg of Na each day, so I never run out.
Phlegm, such a sour name for Mucin, which is a highly potent antibacterial, which not only kills bacteria in the sinuses, lungs and throat, it can also remove dirt, dust particles and even viruses (virii?) out of the body, and into the stomach, where everything bad for you is killed by the highly acidic environment. Mucin is probably the first line of defense against disease for the body.
When you're sick, of course, phlegm (Mucin) is your best friend. Your body produces extra to help you deal with a virus (usually) attack. The only downside is trying to sleep at night with the coughing - it's difficult. In these rare times, I'll resort to an OTC medication. I usually only need it one or two nights, long enough to get through the roughest part. You may not look very pretty at the office, with all of that phlegm dripping out of you, but then, if you're sick, you shouldn't be at the office. Go home! Grab some Kleenexes, a hot beverage, and have a seat in front of your TV.
And drink plenty of water.
I hate water. Why can't coffee be good for us? :-) I had the worst sinusitis 4 years ago. 3 rounds of antibiotics did not help. Finally, I started CLEANING my nose with warm water, just inhaling it and letting it fall out the other nostril. Sounds gross but works. I have improved this technique now by learning it should be boiled or distilled water but, in general actually washing out the stuff works.
Try a netti pot to accomplish the same thing without the mess.
Thank you so helpful. Where can I purchase personal vaporiser from please?
You can get them through Australian chemists (Bosistos Personal Inhaler)
That gargle helped a bunch
Thank you
You're welcome Pauletta Fields. Thanks for watching.
Canadian maple syrup always helps. mix it with buckwheat honey and some baking soda. and do not forget salt too.
thanks for your tips dr... :)
Thank you 🙏
You’re welcome 😊
Sometimes even If I drink water it feels mucousy , Does clearing too much the throat also cause excess of mucous?Dr dan need your help!
You need to be drinking (sipping) water consistently over time (weeks and months, not hours or days) to ensure you are well hydrated.
Flem has ruined my ability to sing in certain registers, it's all I do is try to clear my throat during my gigs, going on for 3 years now
Me too! I think it's my allergies. I deal with excess mucus on my vocal chords that fucks with my singing most of the time and it's been almost a year now that I've had it. 😢
Bethany Sass did you find any solution for this?
Thank you Sir 🙏🏾
You are very welcome
I’m not a pro singer, I just like to sing, and I’m here because I’ve always had way too much phlegm at all times. Constantly clearing my throat, and sometimes it feel like I can’t breathe through my nose it’s so thick. Right before he said never clear your throat, I cleared my throat and the familiar sharp sting in my throat that happens probably every 10 minutes, he said “don’t clear your throat” and I swear my entire life flashed before my eyes...😨
I have falsetto but i lose that falsetto after i sing high in chest or mixed voice. Please i wanna know whats going on.
I have a nebulizer, would that help?
This is an older video but I'm having problems finding an answer to my question and reach out in hope someone has some advice. I'm not sick, but still struggle while singing EVERY TIME. I'm being forced to clear my throat every few minutes from slight plegm over the vocal chords to allow clear singing. It took me years to realize that most people don't have this problem. What can I do and why is this a problem for me?! Please help, my singing is taking a more public route this year.
Tobu Rae Hi! Sorry you haven’t gotten an answer for awhile. I’m a junior in high school and do musical theatre. I am HUGE on keeping my vocal cords in health. I’ve never heard of this before, but here’s some things to try. Make sure you’re drinking LOTS of water everyday to ensure the mucus in your throat is thinned and cleared away over time. Also, try to cut some dairy out of your diet because this puts mucus back into your system and will reverse anything you’re doing to reduce mucus in the throat. If you have time before you sing, warm up your voice with some vocal warm ups to ensure you’re not stressing your voice to make clear sound. I hope some of these help. (Also, in the video he mentions steaming, WHICH IS A NUMBER ONE FOR SINGERS) Good luck!
Thanks Hannah Elizabeth for your care and time in a reply. Dr Dan also replied on a diff video, and I think your tips are awesome. I also have been forcing myself to "swallow" with a sound like Dr Dan said instead of clearing my throat, and it seems to help not get more phlegm building up again in a few minutes. He is awesome and you are too! Thanks!
Avoid dairy products such as milk. It produces mucus.
I have the exact same problem that you have and here is what I found to be the cause. Post nasal drip and Acid reflux. Check to see if you have one of those issues. For post nasal drip try nasal irrigation with saline water. However, for acid reflux is more complicated and should be direct by a doctor.
Same here. I’m not sick and this has been happening for a very long time.
I'm craving ice cream lol but I know it's not good for singers. I'm not doing any vocalizing until tomorrow so will I be fine if I have some today or will it still effect me tomorrow?
There is such a thing as Almond Milk & Coconut Milk ice creams, as well as Soy Milk, and they are delicious. Dr. Dan say Soy products may create mucus as well however.
Will the steam vapor treatment and gargle recipe help congested sinuses due to allergy as well? I'm taking decongestant as I cannot take antihistamine drugs. I sound like an elephant is sitting on my face and I am supposed to lead a song tomorrow!
What about herbal alternatives?
Herbal alternatives can sometimes provide relief for certain vocal issues, but it's essential to remember that individual responses may vary. While some people might find relief from specific herbal remedies, others may not experience any noticeable benefits. It's also important to note that I'm not a medical doctor, so please consider consulting a healthcare professional before trying any new supplements or remedies.
That said, here are some herbal alternatives that have been used to support vocal health:
1. Slippery Elm: Slippery elm bark is commonly used to soothe irritated or inflamed tissues, such as the throat. It's often found in lozenges or teas.
2. Licorice Root: Licorice root is thought to have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe a sore throat. It can be consumed as a tea or found in lozenges.
3. Marshmallow Root: Marshmallow root has a soothing effect on the throat and is often used to alleviate irritation or dryness. It's typically consumed as a tea or in lozenges.
4. Ginger: Ginger has been used to reduce inflammation and can help soothe the throat. Drinking ginger tea or consuming ginger lozenges may provide relief.
5. Peppermint: Peppermint is known for its refreshing and soothing properties, which may help clear mucus and ease throat irritation. Peppermint tea or lozenges are popular options.
6. Thyme: Thyme has been used as a herbal remedy for respiratory issues and may help reduce mucus production. Drinking thyme tea or using thyme essential oil (diluted and used safely) are some ways to use this herb.
7. Eucalyptus: Eucalyptus is known for its expectorant properties and can help clear mucus. Inhalation of eucalyptus essential oil using a diffuser or a steam inhalation may provide relief.
Always be cautious with herbal remedies, and make sure you're using them correctly and safely. If you have any allergies, are taking medications, or have any pre-existing health conditions, consult with a healthcare professional before using herbal alternatives.
Remember that herbal remedies may provide temporary relief, but it's essential to address the root cause of your vocal issues with the help of a healthcare professional or voice specialist.
Thanks so so so much i have a audition in three days and its really big for me so i need my voice to be in top shape
Awesome
I'm glad you enjoyed the video Vallee Jones. Thanks for watching.
I got the worse build up in my throat in my throat it's literally choking me, it's very hard to breathe.
Dr Dan's Voice Essentials thank you I will
Same
What if you get mucus but you are not sick?
John, this might suggest you are either dehydrated or suffering from reflux. Watch this to learn more - th-cam.com/video/XAwsteNLH3s/w-d-xo.html
Great
mine is the worst, I have a swollen bolbs by the two side . I can't now sing more than ones. the phlegm and muscu is much I need a help. because i have much music presentation this time around and its standing as a hindrance. I will love to be adviced on what to do
I would recommend seeing a healthcare professional.
Hi guys I’m looking for a vaporiser like on the video but cannot find one in the U.K.
Any ideas?
Thank you in Advance.
I love watching your video coz i have trouble my voice.when i singing. When my sinustis attact.hard to sing
Susan, perhaps the following video about allergies will prove helpful - th-cam.com/video/gx1Ut9J-OO4/w-d-xo.html
Hi doctor dan thank you for sharing vedio im 1st time to Wacth your vedio.coz im looking guys teaching how to improve the vioce but not realy help . for me . im glad i found you .but i have another question. The gargle i saw your vedio it can help .to my nasal problem? From my sinussitis.sometimes i feel have sharp to my vocal chord. when i singing. interrupt to my voice distroyed my singing .then i coughing because the sharp .i wanna rid of it how can i cure this .i wanna back my voice. My voice. strong and a bit husky voice and high sudenly gone coz im. Sick before from my sinusitis but i been midication from the doctor. Before Then im healing five years not singing .so i wanna back to sing again i miss my voice i can sing male and fmale high and low voice i can sing .but i try to warmp up thank you i feel my vioce a bit improve. Coz i try pratice song alana miles shania twain it hard to sing. So i try pratice warmp up yah.. Realy it help. My voice as long not attact my sinusitis ..but i need cure 1st my problem ..anyway im from canada but im pilipina. Im came from philipines im maried cadanian he is a musician so i try singing hes band .i wish you can help me more.. To imorove my voice and. Cure my sinusitis stick to my nasal the flame it sharp to my vocal. Chord .thank you very much you are awesome teacher of the voice..pls. Reply how to cure my sinusitis.thnxs. a lot
My best advice is to recommend you see a laryngologist for a full vocal health assessment.
Dr Dan's Voice Essentials hi doctor dan thank you so much to your reply..and have a great day..
Would all these work for bass vocals?
Should do!
What do you do for phlegm in the sinuses? It always seems like there's some phelgm that vibrates down into my nasopharynx during sustained or high notes, causing them to waver or crack.
Have you considered seeing an ENT to have your vocal tract reviewed?
@@DrDanRobinson I have considered it yes, I just need to get a referral...which can sometimes be difficult if it's not a health issue.
Try a Neti pot. Use distilled water and a little bit of salt specifically made for nasal irrigation. I would do this twice per day but not right before having to sing. Try it for a few days or so. It takes a bit of practice to get the technique. You want to tilt the head far forward while tilting the head far sideways toward the nostril you want the water to drain out of, so the water does not drain out the back of your mouth.
When I was younger I had to get surgery where they put these kinds of plugs near my lungs. They put them so close to my aorta that everytime I laugh or sing mucus builds up and I have a coughing spell. I started singing when I was very young and it has gotten me through some hard times. My life dream is to be a singer and I have been trying to find ways to solve this issue. Here's to hoping.
Good luck!
Where can I find that vaporizer like yours?
You can get them in Australian Pharmacies. Online search: Bosistos Personal Inhaler.
Where can I get a vapouriser
Online search: Bosistos Personal Inhaler
What do you mean by not rinsing after gargling? Finish the cup, but don't drink or gargle water after?
xPNova s
I have a question about vocal fry. I have it all the time whenever I’m talking or singing or doing lip rolls. What can that be? I always try to sing with a open sound, a even larynx but no the flemy sound always comes!!
Mine comes from clearing my throat and coughing usually after gargling salt water with too much salt. It clears the mucus but damages your throat badly.
Try using more air when talking or singing.
Sir.I am a singer.I have been having trouble singing in high pitches for some time now.I am under a lot of stress because of this.Please help me.
Iam suffering from coughing around my neck vocal cord. It makes difficulties in singing as we'll as speaking in loud voice. My vocal cord continuously producing mucus, cough etc. It makes my voice hoarsed. it becames 4 months.How can I do for escape form this prblm?? Plese suggest and help me...plz plz
I have a chronic condition - always mucus on my vocal chords no matter what I do. I have lyme disease and just bringing this up makes all of my doctors weird. It sucks.
Hi really cool I am a singer I do have a lot of Flem mucus thank you
You're welcome The Prince of Love. Thanks for watching.
And you cant find that green personal vaporizer anywhere!
I do have iso bromide nebulizer solution for my nebulizer.
Dr dan please how do i sing in full falsetto?
crazy raccoon, the following video may prove helpful - th-cam.com/video/x5-QoU4RlhM/w-d-xo.html
I just chew a piece of gum which helps SOOO much
I hate water (I know, weirdo 😂) so I drink squash instead; does that affect the phlegm build up because of the sugars?
High content sugar can lead to more phlegm for some.
Sir have freely throat but i starts sing suddenly starts cough I couldn't complte the song plss tell me solution sir😭
Last 3years I sing proprrly nowdays I cant
I have absolutely no problem with huffing and coughing and getting all of that crap right up to the top of my throat, I cough and cough and bring it all up, but I can't seem to bring it into my mouth and spit it out. I just end up swallowing it over and over and over again.
Jase Cameron, the following video may prove helpful - th-cam.com/video/Nd20871xJb0/w-d-xo.html
Allergies can make a person have that phlegm as well...not just someone who is under the weather. I suffer with terrible sinus issues and at times get that in the back of my throat and cant even get through a song without spitting that junk out
Solomon's Porch, the following video may prove helpful - th-cam.com/video/gx1Ut9J-OO4/w-d-xo.html
I’m on restricted fluids due to cardiomyopathy (it’s inoperable)
It's so depressing :( I really didnt think some mucus could do that much. Like I have around-the-clock allergies all year, but I dont use like a humidifier, gargle with salt water or a netty pot or anything, and I drink caffeine a lot to get through long days at work....but now that I'm taking singing more seriously and have lost some of my singing voice from phlegm and overuse at work, and it's been like a whole season of sore throats and not being able to sing a song :( even some phlegm really does affect your voice!!! I have started gargling salt water more and it deff has brought most of my voice back, but I still can't sing some higher or really low notes right now
What are your thoughts on slippery elm? I just purchased the lozenge form of this, and although it was highly touted, I haven’t seen a lot of benefit thus far.
Slippery elm is a natural anti-inflammatory, so it can have some benefits for the tired voice.
hot lemon spring water n honey...when im not drinking water/green tea by day n beer by nite. for sinus drainage i boil water or cook soup n hold face in the steam n breath in. ive snorted hot water when i was young. freaked my mom out but dr said it was a good idea but to use salt water🍻
🤣🤣🤣
What is a "gargle silently"?
Don't phonate (create sound) while gargling.
I still don't understand. You you mean hold the liquid in throat and do norhinf eise? Or let air just "bubble" as you breathe out the air? I'm new to all of this.
@@rickywaynehunt Lots of people instinctively go "aaaah" while gargling. I think he means don't do that.
Hello Sir, I have no fever.But I feel like there is something in my throat and it makes me feel very uncomfortable.This has been the same for over 2 weeks now. This also makes me feel hot from inside, though when asked, my friends say that my temperature is normal to them. So after asking a few people I understood that only I can feel that I am hot from inside. Please help me. I have tried different medicines like Dayquil, Nyquil, Claritin, Flonase and also gargling, drinking hot water etc.. Nothing has helped me. Is this normal?
Thank you very much for your reply. Sir but I am not a singer. I have consulted a doctor and she told me that something in my throat has enlarged. She also said it is a mucus because of some allergy. I have been taken allergic reliefs and also Mucinex (to reduce the Mucex). Is this all normal? Because this is scaring me a lot. Please help me with a suggestion. Thank you very much :)
Thank you very much Sir. I am sorry for being a bit more curious. Thanks again :)
I never had problems until I "cut back" on my smoking.
A few slices of fresh ginger in boiling water. Let it stand until it is cool enough to drink.
Nanette Tredoux I'll give that a go, cheers!
@@TenorReacts does it work 🙂
Thanks!
How about chewing gum?
Atleast it strengthens the muscles that we use in singing.
My doctor told me once, to vaporise with salty water, allso there is a mint oil you can get in the pharmacy.
Also there is an item, to wash out the upper airflow with slightly salty water.
I would say avoid drinking hot and cold stuff too.
And for the symphtoms Calcium is really good. Not the hard tablet, but the one you can put in water, eather the fizzy or the liquid one. Allso good in a short term for allergies... But only reduces the symphoms!
Real question... how do you gargle silently?
Try reducing the rate of air flow...
What do you think about Apple Cider Vinegar for getting rid of mucus?
I have heard it works for some people...
How do you use it?