Hypothyroidism and Vocal Abilities?

Question

I have Hypothyroidism and just recently found out that I havent been taking the correct dosage of medication and my levels are severly low. I am a singer, and I have noticed over the past few months that I dont have the vocal range I used to. I was reading somewhere that this could be contributed to my hypothyroidism. I was wondering if by taking the correct dosage of medication, if I will be able to gain that range again or if it is permanently damaged?

Answer 1

The thyroid can enlarge as a symptom of hypothyroidism. Here's how: The pituitary gland sectretes a hormone called Thyroid Stimulating Hormone, or TSH. This hormone is responsible for the thyroid's function. Therefore, if the thyoid is not working properly and isn't secreting enough hormones, the pituitary gland will secrete more TSH. With TSH levels on the rise, the thyroid will create new cells in an attempt to secrete more hormones. These new cells can cause the thyroid to become larger, and that is known as a goiter.
To answer your question, yes, vocal ability can be affected. The enlarged thyroid can press on the vocal chords. Once medication regulates thyroid functions and the amount of the hormone in the blood, the thyroid should return to a normal size in most cases. Considering that your thyroid T4 levels are extremely low, your TSH levels should be extremely high, so an enlarged thyroid is highly possible. As far as your vocal range, I would speak to your doctor. It is terrible to have that happen to your voice, so I hope you are able to get your range back to normal.
More seriously though, extremely low levels of thyroid hormone can lead to mydexema coma, where the body will begin to shut down. This is a medical emergency when this happens. Proper thyroid function is very important, so please, see an endrochronologist, or if needed, obtain a referral for one. Get things back to normal, and you should be back on track again. Take care of this as soon as possible to avoid any complications, and you will feel much better!

Answer 2

Hypothyroidism is the term for the thyroids insufficient production of hormones. if the medications to regulate the hormones are not correct it can lead to hyperthyroidism. Swelling of the thyroid gland which is in front of the windpipe can occur. causing restriction on the vocal chords, changing speech. It doesn't usually occur with Hypothyroidism. You need to have new Thyroid function tests done to determine your medication dosage.