What happened to RFK Jr’s voice?
So you've seen RFK Jr speak and you've seen the video of him working out shirtless with weights and two things came to mind. Number 1, isn't it unfortunate a man whose career depends so much on speech developed spasmodic dysphonia and number 2, the man is in good shape. But then it occurs to you, developing spasmodic dysphonia is pretty unusual, and he’s not just in good shape, he’s in incredible, buff, manscaped, tanned, anabolic steroid shape.
So its no surprise to learn he recently fessed up to using testosterone replacement, but not steroids. What's the difference you ask? Well, one comes from a physician and is filled at Walgreens, the other comes from a shady guy you meet in the locker room at Gold's gym. Otherwise, they are identical. Both parties tend to overprescribe as well. After all, everyone likes results.
Has it ever occurred to RFK Jr his voice issues might relate to chronic anabolic steroid use? Peter Brady and every male on the planet going through puberty will attest to the effect of androgens on voice. Tthe medical literare is rife with reports of anabolic steroids causing issues with phonation. (1) (2) (3)
So I ask you what's more plausible, RFK Jr inexplicably developing a rare neurological condition, or experiencing a know side effect of a medication?
As always, if proven correct, you learned it here first.
References
Ray, S. Severe laryngitis following chronic anabolic steroid abuse. J Laryngol Otol. 2008 Mar;122(3):230-2.
Shakeel, Muhammad, et al. Otolaryngology-ENT Research. Vocal Cord Paralysis Secondary to Anabolic Steroid Abuse. Case Report Volume 5 Issue 1. Department of Otolaryngology head and neck surgery Aberdeen Royal Infirmary, UK
Baker, Janet. A report on alterations to the speaking and singing voices of four women following hormonal therapy with virilizing agents. Journal of Voice. Volume 13, Issue 4, December 1999, Pages 496-507