The worst part is not when you're coughing or sneezing -- it's when you're just congested enough so you have no volume or resonance. It's a thin singing sound. If you're miked, it's not too bad, but YOU know you're not 100%.

In my major venue (The Press Room, Portsmouth, NH) I'm not miked. And when I'm throat afflicted, I just don't have the projection I normally have. (Projection carefully honed by singing in a loud pub situation.) Usually I know that I'm not 100%, but that's less obvious to listeners considering the normal ambiant noise level anyway. I probably don't have my usual range, either, so there are songs I avoid.

My arsenal of remedies include Vocal Zones, Herbal Mist, Entertainer's Secret and Bushmill's (strictly for medicinal purposes...) Drink lots of water, but avoid ice water.

Life's gotten a lot better since New Hampshire has gone smoke-free in public places. What a difference!!!

I'm looking forward to trying ClaireBear's remedy...

Linn