Frequently Asked Questions About Hoarseness

4. Does hoarseness indicate a more serious disease?

Lingering hoarseness may mean something more serious is happening in your body. Do not ignore the symptom or write it off as a common cold, especially if other signs of the latter are not present. Relay this symptom and any other changes you have noticed to your doctor. Hoarseness can be a symptom of allergies, rheumatoid arthritis, or a thyroid problem. The thyroid gland in the neck controls your metabolism through the production of hormones. If not working properly, the thyroid can produce too much hormone (hyperthyroidism) or too little (hypothyroidism). A decrease in production of this hormone can cause hoarseness. Other symptoms of thyroid issues include fatigue, forgetfulness, intolerance to cold, dry, coarse skin and hair, and weight gain. Women may also experience heavy menstruation.

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