Laryngeal Nerve Damage

The laryngeal nerves attach to the voice box, or larynx. Laryngeal nerve damage can be caused by a variety of medical conditions.

What is going on in the body?

There are two laryngeal nerves-one on the right and one on the left. These nerves help move the vocal cords, allowing a person to talk. They also help prevent food from going into the windpipe, or trachea. Damage to these nerves usually produces symptoms.

What are the causes and risks of the condition?

Causes of laryngeal nerve damage include:

What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?

Damage to the laryngeal nerves may cause:

A person may also have other symptoms depending upon the underlying cause of the nerve damage.

How is the condition diagnosed?

A person's symptoms and the findings of a physical exam make the healthcare provider suspect laryngeal nerve damage. The diagnosis can sometimes be confirmed with swallowing studies.

A procedure called endoscopy may also be used to confirm nerve damage. This involves inserting a thin tube through the mouth and into the vocal cords. The tube has a camera on the end of it that allows the doctor to view the vocal cords and check their function. This procedure, as well as other tests such as x-rays, may also help uncover the cause of the nerve damage.

What can be done to prevent the condition?

Usually, nothing can be done to prevent laryngeal nerve damage.

What are the long-term effects of the condition?

Damage to the laryngeal nerves is often permanent. This may cause lifelong voice or breathing problems.

What are the risks to others?

Laryngeal nerve damage is not contagious, and poses no risk to others.

What are the treatments for the condition?

Treatment varies depending on the cause and extent of the laryngeal nerve damage, but may include:

What are the side effects of the treatments?

Medications can cause side effects such as allergic reactions and stomach upset. Surgery carries the risks of bleeding, infection and allergic reaction to the anesthesia.

What happens after treatment for the condition?

Laryngeal nerve damage is often permanent. A person may be able to return to his or her normal activities after treatment. In some cases, the individual will need voice retraining with a speech therapist. Treatment may have to continue for the rest of a person's life depending upon the underlying cause of the nerve damage.

How is the condition monitored?

Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the healthcare provider.

Author:Adam Brochert, MD
Date Written:
Editor:Slon, Stephanie, BA
Edit Date:05/01/00
Reviewer:Barbara Mallari, RN, BSN, PHN
Date Reviewed:05/03/01

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