How do I avoid getting an irritation in my throat during singing that causes coughing?

Thanks for asking this question - I'm writing a full hub on this :) It will be published today!

OK as a singer with over 30 yrs experience I can tell you that the more you sing the stronger your vocal chords will get. Most people drink something cold when they get that tickle you are talking about and that is the worse thing you can do. You should drink a warm drink like coffee or hot chocolate and don't cough & try to clear your throat, that does nothing but further irritate it.

Just keep singing your scales everyday and it will take care of its self.

Tip from an old choral coach years ago..keep a large cup of shaved or cracked ice flakes with a little water backstage...or for during intermissions or breaks...Suck on the ice before performing, and if possible during quick breaks, and continue for the few hours after the performance. He used to suggest this to soloists who would have a tickle, or sore throat or even laryngitis. I tried it a few times and it seemed to aenesthesize the throat temporarily pretty well.

Don't over do it. Too much will cover up a possible real problem.

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