What Are the Functions of the Vocal Cords?

Between the air from the lungs and the shape of your lips, the vocal cords are an important component in producing speech and singing. The medical term for vocal cords is "vocal folds" -- due to their functions in breathing and speaking. When one or both vocal cords are not working properly; breathy speech and choking can occur.

Parts of the Vocal Cords

• The vocal cords are made up of cartilage and muscles covered with a layer of mucosa. The muscles are 2/3 of the vocal cords and create two folds in the shape of a V.

Producing Sound

• One function of the vocal cords is to vibrate the air coming up from the lungs to form sound. The folds are brought together and vibrate by the recurrent laryngeal nerve. A different nerve moves each vocal fold. Vocal cord paralysis happens when the nerve does not work properly and the folds cannot move.

Prevents Choking

• Another function of the vocal cords is to control the swallowing of food into the throat from the mouth. When the vocal cords are not working properly; choking can occur, due to the folds not letting food pass: This is often referred to as vocal fold immobility.

Control Air

• The third function of the vocal cords is to control the amount of air sent to and released from the lungs. When the air is going into the lungs, the fold muscles open up in the shape of a V. Vocal Fold Immobility is when the vocal folds do not open properly, causing irregular breath and speech problems. Unilateral Vocal Fold Immobility is when only one of the two folds does not move properly to perform the breathing functions. Bilateral Vocal Fold Immobility is when both fold muscles do not function correctly.