Paralysis of the vocal cords

Vocal cord paralysis is a condition in which one or both vocal cords lose the ability to move. This can happen due to a throat or neck injury, certain surgical procedures, or sometimes, due to a virus.

Paresis of the vocal cords is partial paralysis and can have similar symptoms.

Nerve damage often occurs without a clear cause, but is often associated with infections or inflammation of the airways.

Viral causes are considered possible factors. This damage usually has a favorable prognosis, with a high degree of probability of spontaneous recovery, often without the need for special treatment.

During the examination, it is noticed that during the attempt to create a voice, one vocal cord moves normally, while the other remains motionless or shows limited movements. A healthy vocal cord often “compensates” for the weakness of the other party by trying to further shift its position towards the affected side in order to establish the function of the vocal cords.

Despite this, nerve damage often occurs as a result of medical procedures, especially surgical interventions in the neck or chest. In such operations, the nerve can be injured near the place where it enters the larynx, which does not necessarily result in a complete break, but pressure, stretching or compression can disrupt its function.

The symptoms of paralysis and paresis of the vocal cords can vary, depending on the position of the vocal cords when at rest and the degree of compensation. Symptoms may include a weak voice accompanied by audible squeezing of air, shortness of breath, difficulty swallowing liquids, solid foods and tablets, voice fatigue and reduced endurance of the vocal cords. This can have a significant impact on quality of life.

Treatment of paralysis and paresis of the vocal cords depends on a multitude of factors such as:

• degree of loss of voice,
• voice requests,
• the presence of aspiration,
• symptoms of shortness of breath and
• difficulty swallowing.

There is a possibility for recovery of vocal cord movements, and treatment options are planned according to the prognosis for recovery, symptoms and individual needs.

In some cases, laryngeal electromyography should be performed, as it can provide additional prognostic information.

Other treatment options are observation and monitoring, vocal therapy, and vocal cord augmentation and medialization procedures.

At the Lohuis Filipović Polyclinic , we are aware of how important your voice is for everyday interaction with others. That is why we apply modern technology and methods that bring your vocal cords back into shape.

Therefore, do not wait for the hoarseness to disappear naturally, but make an appointment today by calling +3851 2444 646, or by filling out the online form.