"What Causes Paralysis of One Vocal Fold?"

Causes and Treatments of Vocal Cord Paralysis

Vocal cord paralysis on one side may be related to excessive voice use, smoking, congenital developmental abnormalities, myelitis, diabetes, and other factors. It is recommended to seek medical attention promptly and follow the corresponding treatment measures under the guidance of a doctor. Details are as follows:

1. Excessive Voice Use

Prolonged or excessive use of the vocal cords can lead to vocal cord damage, and even affect the laryngeal nerves, resulting in vocal cord paralysis. Avoid prolonged or excessive use of the vocal cords to allow sufficient rest. Applying a warm towel to the vocal cords can promote blood circulation and alleviate symptoms of vocal cord paralysis. If symptoms are severe, medications such as Citicoline Sodium Capsules, Oxiracetam Capsules, and Mecobalamin Tablets can be prescribed by a doctor.

2. Smoking

Harmful substances in cigarettes can irritate laryngeal nerves, leading to vocal cord paralysis. Voice training, such as vocalization exercises, can improve vocal flexibility and control by practicing various pitches, tones, and timbres, aiding in restoring normal vocal cord function. If vocal cord paralysis is severe, medications like Cefixime Tablets, Amoxicillin Tablets, and Roxithromycin Tablets can be prescribed.

3. Congenital Developmental Abnormalities

Exposure to toxic or harmful substances during fetal development can lead to congenital left vocal cord paralysis. Medications like Vitamin B12 Tablets, Vitamin B1 Tablets, and Ginkgo Biloba Extract Tablets can be prescribed. In severe cases, surgical interventions such as recurrent laryngeal nerve repair, cervical ansa nerve transplantation, or neuromyotendinous pedicle implantation may be necessary.

4. Myelitis

Inflammation can affect cranial nerves, especially those responsible for controlling the vocal cords in the brainstem. Damage to these nerves impairs vocal cord function, causing paralysis. Voice and breathing training can enhance laryngeal muscle strength and flexibility. Medications like Aspirin Enteric-coated Tablets, Celecoxib Capsules, and Diclofenac Sodium Sustained-release Capsules can be prescribed.

5. Diabetes

Poor blood sugar control can lead to high blood glucose levels, which can damage peripheral nerves, causing peripheral neuropathy that affects laryngeal nerves. This may result in vocal cord paralysis and hoarseness. Rest, minimizing speech, and acupuncture can promote local blood circulation and alleviate symptoms. Managing blood sugar levels is crucial, and medications like Metformin Hydrochloride Sustained-release Tablets, Acarbose Tablets, and Gliquidone Tablets can be prescribed.

Apart from the above reasons, surgical injuries can also cause vocal cord paralysis. Maintaining healthy habits and a positive mindset can help alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life.