Vocal cord paresis

Vocal cord paresis (or paralysis) is weakness of one or both vocal folds. Symptoms of paresis include hoarseness; vocal fatigue; mild to severe reduction in vocal volume; pain in the throat when speaking; shortness of breath; aspiration (food or liquids going down the trachea) with frequent resultant coughing, and in extreme cases may cause death. Gargling fluids may also become difficult. Vocal cord paresis can greatly impact daily life, employment, job choice, social interactions, and leisure time pursuits.