Vocal cord paralysis causes loss of control of the muscles that control your voice, making it difficult to speak and breathe. It can result from nerve damage from surgery, viral infections, stroke, neurological conditions or certain cancers.
If you are experiencing symptoms of vocal cord paralysis, our team at San Diego ENT is here to support you every step of the way. From initial diagnosis to finding the best treatment, we’ll be with you as you find your voice again.
How the Vocal Cords Work
Vocal cords, also called vocal folds, play an important role in how we produce sounds. First, there must be air in your lungs, which occurs through the act of inhaling. The air is then pushed through the lungs into your windpipe.
At the top of the windpipe sit your vocal cords, which stay open when breathing and close when you produce sound. As the air gets pushed out of the windpipe, it passes between the vocal cords, causing them to vibrate. This vibration sounds like buzzing. This sound passes through the throat, nose and mouth, which work together to convert the buzzing into speech.
Symptoms of Vocal Cord Paralysis
- Changes to your speech
- Hoarseness
- Choking or coughing while eating
Vocal cord paralysis can be bilateral or unilateral. Bilateral paralysis means both cords become stuck half open and half closed, and the cords are unable to move in either direction. Unilateral paralysis occurs when only one side is stuck or has very limited movement.
Diagnosing Vocal Cord Paralysis
Your doctor will review your symptoms and complete a physical exam. An endoscope will be inserted through your nose or throat so your doctor can get a better view of your vocal cords. Once the vocal cords are in view, your doctor will ask you to speak so they can observe what happens.
Treating Vocal Cord Paralysis
If you are diagnosed with bilateral vocal cord paralysis, a tracheotomy may be needed. This procedure creates a hole in your trachea, and a tube is inserted to help you breathe. Unilateral vocal cord paralysis may also require surgery to move the paralyzed vocal cord.
Non-surgical treatments such as behavioral therapy may be recommended by your doctor before surgery is needed. This type of therapy will teach you how to breathe better and how to find the best body position for you to produce strong speech.
Call San Diego ENT for more information or to schedule an appointment.