Vocal cord paresis, also known as vocal fold paresis or recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis, is a condition where there is a partial loss of movement or weakness in one or both vocal cords. This condition can affect your ability to speak, breathe, and swallow.
Causes
Vocal cord paresis can be caused by various factors, including:
Surgery on the neck or upper chest, such as thyroid or spine surgery.
Neck or chest trauma.
Stroke or other neurological conditions.
Infections or tumors affecting the nerves.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of vocal cord paresis include:
Hoarseness or a rough voice quality.
Breathy voice.
Difficulty projecting voice or speaking loudly.
Choking or coughing while swallowing.
Shortness of breath.
Difficulty varying pitch or speaking in noisy environments.
Treatment
Treatment options for vocal cord paresis may include:
Voice therapy to improve vocal function.
Surgery to reposition the vocal cords.
Medication to address underlying causes.
If you suspect you have vocal cord paresis, it's important to consult with an ENT specialist for proper diagnosis and treatment.
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