I need help with Strained vocal cords!

[Firecat]

So, of course being me, I took it upon myself to look up youtube videos and read forum posts on how to reach a feminine voice.  But what did I do? I got overzealous and cocky, and practiced too much too quickly at too high of a tone.  I have strained my vocal cords I believe.  They are very tense and sore, with a bit of a dryness.  My voice seems pretty much fine... it's not hoarse or anything like that. It IS tired though, and it's not as readily useable as it should be.  There is also a bit of pain in my upper chest.

Does anybody have some advice on how to perhaps relax my vocal cords, or at least prevent permanent damage whilst they heal themselves?

[Meshi]

I had a vocal coach for singing and she always told me to drink hot tea with lemon and honey to help your voice recover from strain. also try not to talk too much for a few days.  It does help.  Next time dont overdue it lol  You will be fine

[Beverly]

Does anybody have some advice on how to perhaps relax my vocal cords, or at least prevent permanent damage whilst they heal themselves?

Drink plenty (moisture) and do not talk - or at least, talk as little as possible. I know girls recovering from voice surgery are told not to talk for a week or more.

[Hikari]

I have to parrot the line of stay hydrated, it is so important for your voice (and everything else) but I admit, I am never as hydrated was I should be.

[Shawn Sunshine]

also of course any type of mint tea will also help sooth an relax

[Firecat]

But what are the odds that I've done permanent damage to my vocal cords?  What will I do if I can't achieve that female voice >.<

[luna nyan]

One off isn't going to do you too much harm.
Just rest it well for a few days and remember not to overdo it in future.
Patient in voice training goes a long way - think of it along the lines of weight training where you add repetitions and weight over time.  Rushing to increase pitch will only strain the muscles prematurely. =)