Voice , Swallowing & Throat - Conditions

Voice , Swallowing
& Throat - Conditions

Voice , Swallowing & Throat - Procedures

Voice , Swallowing
& Throat - Procedures

Vocal Cord Paralysis

This is a condition where one or both of the vocal cords do not move appropriately. It is a result of neural or neuro-muscular disorder.

If one cord does not move well enough to meet the other in the midline, the voice would be breathy and weak. One can feel exhausted due to the excessive strain and breathing that may be required to speak adequately during the day.

If both vocal cords are paralysed in the middle position, it would result in noisy and difficulty in breathing (stridor). If they were paralysed far apart, there would be no voice.

Management requires investigations to look for the cause of the paralysis. This may include a laryngoscopy and a CT or MR scan. Treatment depends on the nature of the paralysis and can include speech therapy, surgery to improve the position of the vocal cord or to provide a safe airway.

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