3 Proper Treatments for Paralyzed Vocal Cord

Paralyzed vocal cord also refers as vocal cord paresis occurs when the nerve impulses located in the laryngeal muscles is interrupted. With the interruption of the vocal cords, paralysis affects the ability to normally speak and breathe. 

Speaking and breathing is affected because the vocal cord or also known as vocal fold is responsible in producing sound and in protecting your trachea from the food and drinks to enter the windpipe to avoid possible instance of choking.

Paralyzed vocal cord may affect both men and women. Likewise, it is seen in adults and children alike. The causes of paralyzed vocal cord may differ from each person. Some common causes may be a neurological disorder and viral infection.

This condition may also affect individuals in different ways. A person who uses his or her voice for a living like a singer or sports announcer may find difficulty in the condition than a person who works as a banker who only uses hand movements in dealing with the customers.

Treatment for vocal cord paralysis is possible. Voice therapy and surgery can be done to treat the condition.

What are the Symptoms of Paralyzed Vocal Cord?

Vocal cord is generally two flexible bands that are found in the opening of the windpipe. When a person is speaking, the two bands will come together and vibrate in order to make a sound. However, when a person is not making a sound, the vocal cords are in relaxed position, thus allowing a person to normally breathe. 

Most common case of paralysis affects only one but certain cases, both vocal cords is affected. When both are affected, swallowing and breathing problems is also possible. 

Some symptoms of vocal cord paralysis may include:

·        Changes in the voice are observed. The voice may sound breathy or even loud whisper is noted.

• ·        Voice is hoarse

• ·        Breathing may sound noisy

• ·        Unable to speak loud

• ·        May find hard to swallow food or drink

• ·        Cough

• ·        Gag reflex is lost

What are the Causes of Paralyzed Vocal Cord?

The exact cause of paralyzed vocal paralysis is not clear. However, several factors may play a role. Some of the possible causes may include:

• ·        Neck injury is one possible cause of the vocal cord paresis. Severe neck injury caused by accidents that may result to severe trauma of the neck or larynx can also damage the vocal cord.

• ·         Viral infections that may affect the nerves of the vocal cords

• ·        Some forms of surgery may cause scarring in the cartilage of the vocal cord. The scarring may result to further inflammation that may stop your vocal cords from normally opening and closing. Some common surgeries that may cause the paralysis are surgeries to chest, thyroid glands, neck and esophagus.

• ·        Individuals who suffered from stroke may damage the area of the brain and may interrupt the transmission of the messages to your voice box.

• ·        Tumor growths in the area may result to paralysis of the vocal cords.

Risk Factors of Paralyzed Vocal

Various factors may increase your risk of developing paralyzed vocal cord. Some of the risks are:

·        Women are more at risk than men are.

• ·        Those who have respiratory problems that require breathing instruments to be inserted are more at risk of developing paralyzed vocal cord. The breathing tubes may indirectly damage the nerves located in the vocal cord area.

• ·        Individuals suffering neurological conditions are also at risk. Those who have multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's syndrome can also have weakness of the vocal cord that may lead to paralysis of the cord.

What are the Treatments for Paralyzed Vocal Cord?

Several treatments available for paralyzed vocal cord may include:

            1. Voice therapy

Voice therapy is initially recommended in the early part of the treatment. This may include some voice exercises that may aid in strengthening the vocal cords. Your speech therapist will also teach some techniques to use your voice properly. Swallowing can also improve after the therapy sessions.

            2. Injection

Injection of fats or filler substance is done to strengthen the muscles affected by the paralysis. After the injection, speaking and swallowing will also improve.

            3. Tracheotomy

Tracheotomy is a surgical process wherein an incision is made in the neck to allow the insertion of breathing tube in the trachea. Breathing problems will get better after the surgical procedure.

Having a paralyzed vocal cord is hard especially if your voice is your bread and butter. However, there are possible treatments that may help you in dealing with the condition. Visit your health care provider to know the right treatment.

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