Voice changes may occur even in the cases of mild thyroid failure since thyroid hormone receptors have been found in the larynx, which proves that the thyroid hormone acts on the laryngeal tissue [6]. Hypothyroidism can cause notable voice changes, such as low voice, roughness, reduced range, and vocal fatigue [7].
Of course, a large thyroid is called a "goiter". (yup, that's what a goiter is--a large thyroid). So most people who feel like there is something stuck in their throat that they feel they need to clear by swallowing actually have a goiter made of many thyroid nodules.
A lack of thyroid hormones because of hypothyroidism leads to inflammation and trapped fluid in the mucous glands, causing them to swell.
The size may range from a single small nodule to a large neck lump. The swollen thyroid can put pressure on the windpipe and esophagus which can cause a cough, wheezing, breathing difficulties or swallowing difficulties.
Post-nasal drip, sinus headaches, and nasal congestion are symptoms that most people experience at some point in their lives. Yet, people with thyroid disease may be more likely to have these symptoms.
For people who do have symptoms, they may have trouble swallowing or breathing or have a feeling of fullness, pain, or pressure in the throat or neck. Some people might notice a lump in their neck when they look in the mirror, but this is uncommon.
For most people, this cough is a dry, hacking sort of cough.” In addition to cough, thyroid growth can lead to pressing on the vocal cords and a hoarse voice, or pressing on the esophagus and difficulty swallowing food. You may also notice swelling or pain in the front of your lower neck, and even into your ears.
Coughing up phlegm is a normal symptom of colds and other health conditions. But coughing up phlegm without feeling sick could indicate a more serious underlying issue like heart or lung disease.
A cough that produces mucus can sometimes occur in response to irritation from an allergen or irritant. Common culprits include smoke, air pollution, and pollen. Sometimes, however, a cough that produces mucus can signal an acute health condition, such as an upper or lower respiratory infection.
Bronchitis is an infection of the main airways of the lungs (bronchi), causing them to become irritated and inflamed. The main symptom is a cough, which may bring up yellow-grey mucus (phlegm). Bronchitis may also cause a sore throat and wheezing.
Symptoms of excess mucus are coughing up phlegm, shortness of breath, or congestion in the throat. If the cause of mucus in the throat is a bacterial, viral, or fungal infection, symptoms may be different. They may include fever, itchy eyes, a runny nose, headache, and difficulty breathing.
If thyroid issues are the cause, the onset of a hoarse voice will be slow and gradual, rendering it undetectable until the later stages of hypothyroidism.
A barium swallow is an x-ray imaging test that helps your doctor get a detailed visual of the back of the mouth, throat and esophagus to help diagnose oral cancer or other diseases.
Also called upper airway cough syndrome, postnasal drip is a common cause of a persistent cough. When a virus, allergies, dust, chemicals, or inflammation irritate your nasal membranes, they make runny mucus that drips out of your nose and down your throat. This makes you cough, especially at night when you lie down.
About catarrh
Catarrh is a build-up of mucus in an airway or cavity of the body. It usually affects the back of the nose, the throat or the sinuses (air-filled cavities in the bones of the face). It's often temporary, but some people experience it for months or years. This is known as chronic catarrh.
Mucus and phlegm are similar, yet different: Mucus is a thinner secretion from your nose and sinuses. Phlegm is thicker and is made by your throat and lungs.
The mucous membranes in your sinuses are home to thyroid hormone receptors. If the level of thyroid hormones in your system is too low, these receptors may cause non-allergic rhinitis, in which your mucous glands swell and your body overproduces connective tissue, blocking up your nasal passages.
In some cases, mild dysphonia may occur as a result of mild thyroid deficiency. Hoarseness is a common symptom in patients with hypothyroidism.
Sensitive Skin and Skin Discoloration
Thyroid hormones also influence the quality of your skin in various ways. For example, with hyperthyroidism, you may notice itchy and dry patches of skin. Your face may feel softer and swollen. You may even notice swelling around your fingertips.
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland is underactive and does not produce enough thyroid hormones. Hypothyroidism can cause local inflammation and pressure. Because the larynx is very close to the thyroid gland, the pressure or inflammation may affect the larynx, causing hoarseness of the voice.