How Teachers Can Cure Throat Problems?

Wednesday, September 5, 2012, 11:52 [IST]

Throat problems are an occupational hazard of being a teacher. In fact, doctors have come to describe a certain condition that is called the 'teacher throat'. It includes perpetually sore throat and a cracked voice that sounds like croaking. It would also put you at a high risk of getting throat cancer.

On the occasion of Teacher's day, lets give all the teachers in the world a gift of good health. Your throat problems are difficult to cure and therefore you must try to prevent them. Here are some things that cause the 'teacher throat' syndrome and how to deal with them.

Chalk powder: Most ordinary classrooms in India have a blackboard and chalks to write on them. Chalk powder is basically limestone dust and it is a major irritant to the throat. If you have allergic tendencies then it will become all the more difficult for you. Upgrade to a white board and markers because it is healthier option.

Stressing The Vocal Chords: In simple words, that would translate to shouting at a class full of incorrigible children. Now ideally, teachers do not like to do this but what is the choice? The last thing we want to do is teach the teachers, but here is a word of advice; silence speaks louder than words. Silence the class with your sinister silence to save yourself some throat problems.

Overuse Of Vocal Chords: Shouting is not the only way in which you are stressing your voice. You need to speak in a loud voice by virtue of your profession. Voice modulation is very important for teachers. Use your voice just as much as required. So not try to speak over a noisy class; let them settle down into silence and then speak.

Hoarse Voice: When your voice is so stressed all the time it will become hoarse. So every time you open your mouth in the class, a croak or a screech comes out. The best way to avoid this throat problem is to do some voice warm up. Exercise your voice 3 to 5 minutes before you enter the class so that you can start off on the right foot.

Never Speak At A Stretch: Speaking too fast or too much at a time is detrimental for your voice. Break your sentences. You must breathe evenly when you speak. This helps you stay comfortable and confident.

Drink Lots Of Water: Talking constantly makes your throat dry. It is important to drink lots of water to keep yourself hydrated. Also try to drink warm water whenever you can.

Bad Habits To Avoid: Clearing throat becomes second nature for most teachers. They cough out of habit and clear their throat when it is not necessary. You are already overusing your voice. Is it not better to give your voice a rest when you are not talking

Teacher's Day is time to honour our teachers and facilitate them. So we are giving all the teachers in the world some sound advice to keep throat problems at bay. Happy Teacher's Day!