Causes And Risk Factors Associated With Vocal Cord Paralysis

Vocal cord paralysis, also referred to as vocal fold paralysis, develops when there is a disruption in the nerve signals that normally travel to the larynx (voice box). This disruption causes the muscles within the vocal cords to stop functioning and be paralyzed. Typically, vocal cord paralysis only affects one of the vocal cords; paralysis of both vocal cords is very rare, and it is considered life-threatening. Symptoms of vocal cord paralysis include noisy breathing, loss of vocal pitch or gag reflex, and unproductive coughing. Patients may notice they need to take more breaths than usual while speaking, and they might struggle to speak loudly.