Vocal cord paralysis post total Thyroidectomy

Hi, I am so sad to hear when simple suggestions for a Speech and Language Pathologist evaluation are not ordered by a persons oncologist/surgeon. The SLP (preferably one from the hospital, who specializes in cancer related issues) can evaluate you, and give you strategies and exercises which can facilitate improved vocalizations. Breathing exercises to ensure you have adequate breath support for a voice without straining, exercises to build your muscles and vocal exercises to produce voice without straining. People often whisper when they have difficulty producing a voice and whispering actually causes more vocal strain which often leads to more hoarseness! Drinking a lot of fluids (water) and sucking on hard candies are also helpful for healing and keeping the mechanism moist. In addition to addressing voice concerns, the SLP can address or refer any swallowing concerns . As an FYI-the field of Speech and Language Pathology is very broad, so you would want a therapist who specializes with cancer/surgical rehab.
A simple request in the patients portal for the SLP referral might eliminate having to speak a lot to explain yourself.
Waiting to be assessed is not helpful for voice disorders because the method you might be using to produce a voice might be contraindicated; so you would benefit from getting evaluated sooner rather than later. Good Luck!

This is very helpful! I am learning that my care is not the best because my care is mostly telehealth.
Your response gives me the information and advice to be my own advocate and get the care I need.
Thank you

…I almost forgot…..FYI- there are Apps and phone equipment for people without voices. The APPS enable you to create a message and have it spoken for you. There are many different versions and an SLP can evaluate which one might serve you best UNTIL you get your voice back. There is also a phone system for the home which enables the user to type and it will speak their message. An SLP who specializes in Augmentative Communication Systems can help…even if it is a temporary need, having a system that enables you to get a message out can relieve the stress of not being able to be heard. Good luck!

Thank you so much. I have been asking my daughter to make appointments for me. I need a haircut but I can't call to request one. I was going to drive to the salon to make the appointment using written cards.
I do live near a voice clinic at a major hospital. I am hoping to go there next week. I am waiting for my PCP to fax the rx.

GREAT! I am sure they will be able to assess the situation and give you strategies that will help. They should also be able to recommend an App that can help you communicate until things improve. Good Luck!

No, no and no. I think it was Hyaluronic acid but I’m not certain.