LA Wildfires and Their Residual Effects to the Voice and Lungs
“Wildfires burn a lot more than trees and grass. The burned cars and structures can release toxic chemicals. Even after fires die down and smoke dissipates, walls, floors, furniture and other indoor surfaces may absorb toxic chemicals and smoke. These surfaces can off-gas for weeks or even months, studies show, although that will reduce over time.”
Protecting Your Voice After the LA Wildfires
Wildfires often leave a trail of hazardous air quality, including smoke, ash, and fine particulate matter, which can pose serious risks to vocal health. For singers, the strain on the voice can be significant, especially if exposure is prolonged. Here’s a guide on how to protect your voice in the aftermath of the LA Wildfires.
1. Stay Indoors as Much as Possible
The first step to safeguarding your vocal health is minimizing exposure to smoke and pollutants. When the air quality is poor, stay indoors with windows and doors closed. If you must go outside, wear a mask designed to filter out fine particles, such as an N95 respirator. Prolonged exposure to harmful particles can irritate your vocal cords, making them swollen, inflamed, and more prone to injury.
2. Hydrate, Hydrate, Hydrate
Smoke and dry air can dehydrate your body and vocal cords, leaving your voice strained and vulnerable. Drink plenty of water throughout the day, aiming for at least 8 glasses. You can also hydrate your throat directly by inhaling steam from a hot shower or using a humidifier to add moisture to the air in your home. Consider herbal teas with soothing ingredients like honey or ginger, which can provide additional comfort and support to the vocal folds.
3. Use a Saline Nasal Spray
Smoke can dry out and irritate your nasal passages, leading to congestion and difficulty breathing, which may affect your voice. A saline nasal spray can help moisturize the nasal passages and clear out any remaining particles that may be affecting your respiratory system. Clear nasal passages also ensure that air flows more smoothly through your vocal tract, reducing strain on your voice.
4. Rest Your Voice
If you’ve been exposed to smoke or poor air quality, your vocal cords need rest to recover from potential irritation. Avoid speaking or singing excessively, especially at higher volumes or pitches. If you feel any tightness or strain, give your voice time to recover. A rested voice will be better equipped to handle the demands of singing once air quality improves.
5. Consult a Vocal Specialist
If you experience persistent hoarseness, pain, or discomfort, consider seeing a vocal specialist. They can assess whether the smoke has caused any damage to your vocal cords and offer targeted treatment or therapy.
By following these tips, you’ll give your voice the best chance to recover from the damaging effects of the LA wildfires, ensuring that it remains strong and healthy.
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