Paralyzed Vocal Cord

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Hello Doctor...
I was so excited to find your website. I have learned more about my paralysis and what is actually happening then I have from my doctors (very sad).
Quick Background for you:
March 2012 I had a Glomus Jugulare Tumour removed. Unfortunately when I woke up, the right side of my face was paralyzed as well as my right vocal cord. They said there was no damage done to the facial nerves just had to work around and move them. Do they die once that happens an they have to regrow or are they just in shock? What really happens to nerves? This has been a horrible year to say the least.

As this point, in June I had 2 different temporary injections to help. They were more concerned about my swallowing I think then my voice. Since then I was told they wanted to wait a year in hopes of my voice coming back on it's own. I believe that it has got a little stronger, was told by people that I am definitely easier to hear and understand. I can only say 6-7 words before having to take a breath.
What would be some signs that maybe the nerves are waking up? I didn't see anything on this site. I'm still hoping for no surgery with my voice returning, but also know the longer it is, will it?

Thanks for any thoughts or comments in advance
Susie

James P Thomas MD's picture
Submitted by James P Thomas MD on Wed, 2013-03-06 10:37

Nerves can be injured to different degrees. Even pressure on a nerve will injure it mildly. A completely cut nerve is obviously injured, but can still grow back across the gap between the cut ends.

Your questions are really good ones, but are best answered by the person who looks at your vocal cords. He or she should be able to identify for you signs that the vocal cord nerves are recovering and be able to compare your old videos with your new ones.