There are many like Tasleem who use their vocal chords for a long stretch and complain frequently of a sore throat.

So does speaking continuously for long hours cause sore throat?

"Not if you do it in limit. When you speak or shout constantly or for long period of time, it strains your vocal chords. The chords become swollen and inflamed. This result in hoarseness, distortion of voice or temporary loss of voice," explains Dr. Jayant Gandhi, ENT Specialist from Nanavati hospital, Mumbai.

Vocal Chord Abuse

What is an abuse of vocal chords?

Haggling in loud voice so as to be heard above the background, teaching students and then raising your voice to be heard above the din of the class or dictating notes for a long stretch or for that matter speaking to your clients non-stop for hours etc. is all an abuse of your vocal chords.

All these factors can set the stage for chronic throat irritation.

When the Frog Doesn't Go Away

Croaking for two to three days is okay. But when the frog refuses to dislodge from your throat for weeks, the cause could be more than straining of your voice.

Some other factors include:

• Ageing

Hoarseness is common as you age. This is because as you age, your chords lose some of their elasticity.

• Smoke and Pollutants

Exposure to smoke and pollutants can also cause throat irritability. The pollutants irritate the throat lining.

• Air Conditioning

This is another common cause for sore throat. Breathing dry air can dry your throat as well.