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News Topical, Digital Desk : Have you ever noticed that when you're sick with a cold, your voice suddenly sounds hoarse, raspy, or discordant? As if someone else's voice is coming from your throat? Actually, this isn't a trivial matter, but rather the result of a fascinating process going on inside the body.

Swelling of the throat is the biggest reason

When a cold or viral infection grips the body, its effects aren't limited to the nose or throat. The vocal cords, or vocal cords, that produce sound, are also affected. These vocal cords, located in your throat, vibrate as air passes through them, producing sound. When they become inflamed—a condition medically known as laryngitis—they thicken and become heavy. As a result, their vibrations slow down, making the voice sound deep or hoarse.

Mucus also has an effect

The mucus that accumulates in your throat during a cold can also alter your voice. This layer coats the vocal cords, preventing them from vibrating freely. This is a major cause of a hoarse or different tone. Sometimes, even after the cold clears, if the mucus persists for a long time, it may take longer for your voice to return to normal.

Coughing increases the problem

When we have a sore throat, we often try to cough or clear our throat . But this habit can backfire. Doing so increases pressure and strain on the vocal cords. As a result, the voice may sound more tired or hoarse.

Why does the voice sound heavy?

When the vocal cords swell, they increase in size and thickness. This is similar to how thicker guitar strings produce a deeper sound. In other words, swollen vocal cords vibrate slower and their vibration frequency decreases, making the voice sound deeper.

Easy ways to get relief

To quickly restore your voice, you can follow some effective tips:

  • Drink plenty of water throughout the day and, if possible, use a room humidifier. This can reduce throat inflammation and thin mucus.
  • It's important to truly rest your throat. Speaking softly or even whispering tires out the vocal cords, so it's best to remain completely silent for a while.
  • If your voice doesn't improve after two to three weeks, it could be a sign of a deeper problem, such as a cyst on the vocal cords or acid reflux.


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