Laryngeal Nerve Damage
What are the treatments for the condition?
Treatment varies depending on the cause and extent of the laryngeal nerve damage, but may include:
surgery to help prevent lung infections or relieve breathing problems
short-term use of a ventilator, or artificial breathing machine
a tracheostomy, which is a surgical opening into the windpipe to allow breathing
antibiotics, if a lung infection occurs
surgery or medication to treat the underlying cause of the nerve damage. For example, a tumor may need to be surgically removed.
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.
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