I'd like to clarify this. Thanks for the information on what medication was
involved as I was curious myself.
Angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors are very useful medications
for high blood pressure and protection of the heart and kidneys in heart
failure and diabetes. They inhibit an enzyme that converts angiotensin I
into angiotensin II [if you care ;-)]. In some people they allow backup of
the precursors of angiotensin I, a group of chemicals called "kinins."
These can cause a tickle or cough which in some people can be very
irritating. They can also cause hives in the airway which can be dangerous.
I'm actually surprised he was treated with an ACE inhibitor since the risk
of interference with singing is too great. There are other options
available. But then I don't have all the medical facts, so I won't comment
further.
John
John Messmer, M.D.
Assistant Professor, Family and Community Medicine
Penn State Hershey Medical Center
> -----Original Message-----
> From: Edward Norton [mailto:belcantist2003@y...]
> Sent: Wednesday, January 29, 2003 1:01 PM
>>
> Though I am not at liberty to mention the specific name of
> the drug Ben
>
> was using, I can say that it was an "ace inhibitor"
> medication which is
>
> used to control high blood pressure. One of the rare side
> effects of this
>
> particular drug is the development of a thick mucous on the
> vocal cords
>
> which causes the voice to crack at the most unpredictable moments.
>
>
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