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Phlegm-- Does this plague everyone??
Docsexy
Enrolled Posts: 14
I seem to have the worst problem with phlegm when I'm singing.... I'm constantly having to clear my throat and spit even after I do Ken's warmup.. It's so frustrating because my voice can feel so good but I lose a lot control and range due to this crap that builds up in my throat... There will sometimes be a few minutes of clarity and singing becomes so much easier but it usually doesn't last long... I'm not allergic to anything that I know of and I don't smoke, nor will I be around anyone who does... I can start a song with my voice clear and may still have to clear my throat a dozen times while singing the same song...
I've also been getting brief periods of "froggy voice" lately... It will clear up after a few minutes, but may plague me before the song is over, as well... I'm not sure if these are two separate issues or what, but does anyone else have problems with this? If so what are some ways to remedy it?
Thanks for your help in advance.. 
Lucas Tanner
Comments
Oh and I went to a local doctor and he prescribed me something called "Mucolator". It did help but it really did made me produce less mucus everywhere else as well XD. I suppose you could try that out. ;o
Doc,
I think most of those problems may be caused by sinus infections that cause a post-nasal drip. That drip plays havoc on our vocal cords, because it goes right down our throats and coats our cords, making our range become muffled.
It has been suggested that clearing our throats in the traditional manner <ahem> is very distressing on the vocal cords and can cause more production due to the abrasive nature of clearing the throat. It's hard to resist the tickle, but many say to just sing your way past the goobers, because it's less abusive on the cords.
You might get checked by a physician for sinus problems, as they can lurk for months on end and are often very difficult to recover from. Otherwise, an ENT might be able to suggest why the overproduction and diagnose the cause.
It's definitely a nuisance!
Bob
Doc,
That was going to be my next question... are you warming up before you start singing? That would be the time to start trying to sing your way through the sludge. And yes, you should start your warmup gently with some lip trills and tongue exercises before even getting to the Lah an LAA, etc...
If the answer to all the above is Yes, then I would fall back to investigating whether you have a long-term, low-grade sinus infection living in your head. If you in fact do have a sinus infection going on, getting that taken care of will only help your singing voice and your health in general.
Bob
Also, remember to stay hydrated. That helps cut down phlegm, and keep production of the proper type of phlegm up. Also, take a look at your diet, citrus fruit can contribute, as well as alcohol. Acid reflux can cause it as well. I've had the same problem at different times. It can be annoying, start by drinking more water, and see if that helps.
Try asking your doctor / ENT about Mucolator and try it out to see if it works XD!