Returning to singing

Hi, guys. I was a singer in high school with a decent mezzo range (G below middle C to high B). I stopped singing in college (for about three years) and am now returning to it again. However, I found that the top octave of my range has completely disappeared, and I can no longer sing above a treble C. My voice just cuts out, even after an extensive warmup. In addition, trying to sing up there quickly leaves my throat sore and voice tired, so I am worried about causing vocal damage. I had expected some loss of range due to lack of practice, but not this much. Does anyone have any tips on how to regain these notes without damaging  or straining my voice? Thanks.

Hi, Grace! I love straw singing for vocal rehabilitation and exploring areas of your range that are currently out of reach. I do recommend you take it slowly, and consider bringing it up with your doctor! Loss of range, soreness and fatigue could be indicative of an underlying issue they can help address. It could just be lack of use, but it's always best to play it safe!