Vocal cords must close tightly to produce sound and keep food out of the lungs. Paralysis prevents this closure.
What is Vocal Cord Paralysis?
It occurs when the nerve impulses to your voice box (larynx) are interrupted. One or both of the vocal cords become unable to move.
The Dual Function: Vocal cords do two things:
It occurs when the nerve impulses to your voice box (larynx) are interrupted. One or both of the vocal cords become unable to move.
The Dual Function: Vocal cords do two things:
- Speak: They vibrate to make sound.
- Protect: They close tightly when you swallow to stop food/water from entering your windpipe.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on whether the cord is paralyzed in the "open" or "closed" position.
- Breathy Voice: You sound like you are whispering because air leaks through the gap.
- Hoarseness: A raspy or strained quality.
- Noisy Breathing: (Stridor) if the cords are paralyzed in a closed position.
- Ineffective Cough: You cannot clear your throat properly.
One vs. Both Cords
| Type | Severity | Main Issue |
|---|---|---|
| Unilateral (One cord paralyzed) |
Common | Voice & Swallowing. The working cord tries to compensate for the paralyzed one. |
| Bilateral (Both cords paralyzed) |
Medical Emergency | Breathing. If both cords are paralyzed in a "closed" position, they block the airway. This often requires a Tracheotomy. |
⚠️ DANGER: ASPIRATION
Because the vocal cords cannot close tightly, food or liquid may slip into the lungs instead of the stomach.
Watch for: Choking or coughing every time you drink water. This can lead to Aspiration Pneumonia, a severe lung infection.
Because the vocal cords cannot close tightly, food or liquid may slip into the lungs instead of the stomach.
Watch for: Choking or coughing every time you drink water. This can lead to Aspiration Pneumonia, a severe lung infection.
Causes
- Surgery (Most Common): Accidental damage to the recurrent laryngeal nerve during Thyroid or neck surgery.
- Tumors: Growths in the neck or chest pressing on the nerves.
- Viral Infections: Inflammation from viruses (like Lyme disease or West Nile) can damage the nerves.
- Stroke: Damage to the brain area that controls muscles.
Diagnosis
An ENT (Ear, Nose, Throat) doctor will look down your throat using a:
- Laryngoscopy: A thin flexible tube with a camera is passed through the nose to watch the cords while you speak.
- Laryngeal EMG: Measuring electrical currents in the voice box muscles to check for nerve damage.
Treatment Options
Doctors often wait 6–12 months before permanent surgery, as nerves can sometimes heal on their own.
1. Voice Therapy
Exercises to strengthen the vocal cords and teach the "good" cord to compensate for the paralyzed one.
2. Surgical Options
- Bulk Injection: The doctor injects a filler (like collagen or body fat) into the paralyzed cord. This "plumps" it up, making it easier for the other cord to touch it and close the gap.
- Thyroplasty (Implant): Placing a small implant in the voice box to permanently push the paralyzed cord into the center.
- Tracheotomy: Used only in severe bilateral cases to create a new airway for breathing.
Lifestyle & Coping
- Tuck Your Chin: When swallowing, tuck your chin to your chest. This mechanical position helps close the airway and prevent choking.
- Humidify: Keep the air moist to prevent the vocal cords from drying out.
- Voice Amplifiers: Use a microphone if you have to speak to groups, to prevent straining.
Disclaimer: The content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician regarding any medical condition.
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