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Laryngeal Nerve Damage Symptoms

The two laryngeal nerves attach to the larynx, commonly called the voice box. They help move the vocal cords, which allows a person to talk, and they also help prevent food or liquid from getting into the trachea, or windpipe. Laryngeal nerve damage can result from a few different medical conditions and has varying symptoms.

  1. Causes

    • Laryngeal nerve damage can be caused by a complication from surgery, particularly surgery involving the heart, thyroid or lungs. It also can result from a breathing tube in the windpipe, or tumors or other growths.

    Throat Symptoms

    • Laryngeal nerve damage symptoms include difficulty speaking or swallowing, and hoarseness.

    Respiratory Symptoms

    • Additional symptoms include difficulty breathing and shortness of breath.

    Dangerous Symptoms

    • Dangerous symptoms include inhalation of food or liquid into the lungs, which can cause aspiration pneumonia.

    Treatment

    • In some cases, the nerve recovers on its own, but sometimes the damage is permanent. Surgery may be needed, and some people need voice therapy.

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