Allergies+ Vocal Cords

When you think about allergies, you probably think of a runny nose, itchy eyes, and sneezing. But they can also take a toll on your voice in several ways:

• An allergic reaction can cause your vocal cords to swell.
• Postnasal drip -- when mucus moves from your nose into your throat -- can irritate your vocal cords.
• Coughing and clearing your throat can strain your vocal cords.
• Antihistamine drugs for allergies can dry out mucus in your throat. This may harm your vocal cords, which need moisture to work.