Connect
← Return to Vocal cord paralysis
Discussion
Comment receiving replies
I noticed that all these comments are a few years old so I am unsure anyone will respond ,but here goes. I have a paralyzed left vocal cord. It became paralyzed a few weeks after I had heart surgery for a PDA. I was told that it was the scar tissue from my surgery that did this. After a couple years my voice was restored for a few years. Then I caught an upper respiratory infection that caused laryngitis. Of course this didn't go away. Had the vocal cord checked and was told the virus affected the vocal cord because it was weak, and it has been this way for a few years. Would love to find a doctor for this, does anyone know of a clinic or doctor that they would reccommend.I live in NC around the Asheville area. I don't mind a bit of a drive,but was hoping that I could find someone within a couple hours,maybe? Appreciate any help.
Replies to "I noticed that all these comments are a few years old so I am unsure anyone..."
Speech pathologists are often the people to turn to for help with strengthening a paralyzed vocal fold. Good luck!
Connect
Hello @billy7pan and welcome to Mayo Connect. As I also have a paralyzed left vocal cord with an unknown origin, I understand how important it is to find good treatment for voice issues.
As I live in SE Michigan, I cannot provide you with a referral in your area but what I did when I needed surgery was to consult with a multidisciplinary hospital system nearby. Fortunately, there are several in the tri-state area and I picked Cleveland Clinic (about a 3 1/2-hour drive) for my final consultation as well as surgery. Do you have a multidisciplinary medical center nearby? I'm thinking of a university medical school or perhaps a facility like Mayo Clinic?
As my paralyzed vocal cord has an unknown origin (unlike yours that is determined to be a result of heart surgery) has anyone suggested an injection in the vocal cord or perhaps surgery?
As you read the posts, you will meet several members who have had vocal cord treatments. You should feel free to "Reply" to their post, if you would like to ask questions or get more information.
I'm wondering if you have swallowing and/or choking issues in addition to the raspy voice?