On this page, you'll find everything you're looking for regarding vocal cord paralysis.
What Is Vocal Cord Paralysis?
Humans have vocal cords made up of two vocal folds (cords), and vocal cord paralysis is a voice disorder that occurs when one or both of the vocal folds do not open or close properly. There are two types:
Unilateral vocal cord paralysis: only one vocal cord is paralyzed.
Bilateral vocal cord paralysis: both vocal cords are paralyzed.
What Are the Symptoms of Vocal Cord Paralysis?
Voice Changes:
Hoarseness, breathy voice, and weak voice.
Breathing Problems:
Shortness of breath, noisy breathing, and coughing.
Swallowing Problems:
Choking or coughing when swallowing food, drinks, or saliva, or having food sticking in the throat.
What Are the Causes of Vocal Cord Paralysis?
The cause is often unknown, but it can also be due to:
Complications from certain surgeries in the neck area, such as thyroidectomy.
Insertion of breathing tubes that cause damage to the vocal cords.
Brain, neck, and chest tumors.
Viral infections.
Autoimmune diseases.
Stroke.
How Is Vocal Cord Paralysis Diagnosed?
The doctor will take a medical history and conduct a physical examination, and may request additional procedures as needed, such as:
Flexible laryngoscopy.
CT scans.
Blood tests.
Laryngeal electromyography (LEMG).
How Is Vocal Cord Paralysis Treated?
Treatment involves several procedures or as needed and may include:
Voice therapy: includes exercises to strengthen the vocal folds or improve breath control while speaking.
Surgery, such as:
Vocal cord injections.
Laryngeal surgery.
What Are the Preventive Measures for Vocal Cord Paralysis?
There is no way to prevent vocal cord paralysis.
What Are the Complications of Vocal Cord Paralysis?
The impact on voice and swallowing can significantly affect the patient’s quality of life and, despite its rarity, vocal cord paralysis may lead to pneumonia.
When Should You See a Doctor?
See your doctor if you notice changes in your voice, unusual hoarseness, shortness of breath when speaking, or coughing and choking with food or liquids.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does vocal cord paralysis feel like?
You may not feel sensations directly from the vocal cord. Instead, you’ll experience symptoms resulting from it.
Is vocal cord paralysis common?
Unilateral vocal cord paralysis is more common than bilateral vocal cord paralysis. It's rare for both vocal cords to become paralyzed.
Can you talk with vocal cord paralysis?
Many people with vocal cord paralysis can still speak, but it may require more effort.
