Why Does My Throat Always Tickle When Singing? Tips to Soothe and Protect Your Voice

Have you ever wondered why your throat can feel tickly or raw after a long singing session? This tickling sensation can be uncomfortable and may even detract from your enjoyment and performance. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this feeling and offer effective remedies and techniques to soothe and protect your vocal cords.

Symptoms and Causes

When you sing, the muscles in your throat and vocal cords can become irritated, leading to a tickle or raw feeling. This can be due to various factors, such as overuse, dryness, or improper technique. Common symptoms include:

Tickling or itchy sensation in the throat Sore throat Rawness or dryness in the throat Dry cough or throat irritation

Home Remedies for Throat Irritation

To alleviate throat irritation and soothe a tickly throat after singing, try the following home remedies:

Saltwater Gargle

One effective method is to use a saltwater gargle. Simply mix half a teaspoon of salt into a glass of lukewarm water. Gargle the mixture and spit it out. This can help keep your throat moist, reduce swelling, and ease the raw, scratchy feeling. Additionally, honey can be added to your gargle for extra relief. Honey is an excellent natural remedy for a sore throat due to its natural antibacterial properties and its ability to act as a wound healer, offering immediate relief from pain.

Proper Hydration

Keeping yourself hydrated is crucial in preventing a raw or scratchy throat. Drink plenty of water, herbal teas, or warm broths to keep your vocal cords moist and your throat soothing.

Humidifier

If you sing in a dry environment, using a humidifier can help add moisture to the air, reducing dryness and irritation in your throat.

Improving Your Singing Technique

Proper singing technique can prevent throat irritation and protect your voice in the long term. Here are some steps you can take:

Breathing Techniques

When you sing, it's important to breathe from your diaphragm rather than your throat. Diaphragmatic breathing, also known as belly breathing, involves breathing deeply into your belly rather than your chest. This helps to relax your muscles, reducing tension and strain on your vocal cords.

Vocal Exercises

To develop good singing habits, practice vocal exercises regularly. Start with simple exercises like breath control, and gradually progress to more challenging techniques. Vocal coaches can provide personalized guidance and help you correct any bad habits that may be causing throat irritation.

Rest and Recovery

Your vocal cords need rest to heal and recover. After a long singing session, take time to rest your voice. Avoid overusing your voice and give yourself the necessary time to recover between sessions.

Conclusion

While occasional throat irritation is normal, chronic irritation can cause long-term damage to your voice. By following these remedies and improving your singing technique, you can protect your vocal cords and reduce the tickling sensation. Remember, changes may take time, so be patient and consistent in your practice and care for your voice.

For further assistance, consider consulting a vocal coach or a healthcare professional specializing in throat and voice care. With the right care and techniques, you can enjoy a healthy and robust singing voice for years to come.