The vocal cords are a band of muscle tissue fold located inside the larynx (voice-box). Vocal cords are also known as vocal folds. The function of the vocal cords is to produce sound for speech, protect the airways from getting choked by food, drink or saliva and regulating air flow in the lungs. During inhalation, the vocal cords move apart (get abducted). These vocal cords then adduct or come close together while swallowing and sound production. Any hindrance of nerve supply to the larynx may result in vocal cord paralysis. This condition is also known as vocal fold paresis, recurrent laryngeal nerve paralysis, or vocal fold paralysis. Speaking, breathing and swallowing are the functions that get affected if the vocal cord gets paralyzed. Homeopathic remedies for vocal cord paralysis carry a good scope of treatment. Cuasticum, Gelsemium, and Cocculus Indicus are the top homeopathic medicines used to treat vocal cord paralysis.
Homeopathic Treatment for Vocal Cord Paralysis
The homeopathic mode of treatment is quite effective for managing vocal cord paralysis. From the long list of effective homeopathic medicines used to manage cases of vocal cord paralysis, the major ones are Causticum, Gelsemium, Cocculus Indicus, Lachesis, Stannum Met, Nux Vomica, and Phosphorus. Homeopathy is a symptom-based science where the symptoms provided by the patient provide the key towards the medicines required for a particular case. The chances of recovery in each and every case of vocal cord paralysis are highly variable. Various factors like the duration of complaint, intensity of symptoms, unilateral/bilateral involvement collectively decide the scope of homeopathic treatment. It needs to be noted that in cases of complete bilateral vocal cord paralysis (where the vocal cords are held tightly close together in the midline), there is a decrease in the airflow. This leads to a major difficulty in breathing. In such cases, urgent alternative help (other than homeopathy) should be taken. The homeopathic medicines for vocal cord paralysis should be taken after consulting a well-qualified homeopathic physician.
Homeopathic Medicines for Vocal Cord Paralysis
Causticum – Homeopathic Medicine for Hoarseness of Voice in Vocal Cord Paralysis
Causticum is a natural medicine for hoarseness of voice in cases of vocal cord paralysis. In cases needing Causticum, hoarseness of voice is most marked in the morning and evening. There is also an inability to speak loudly. Shortness of breath may also be present
Gelsemium – Homeopathic Remedy for Weak Voice in Vocal Cord Paralysis
Gelsemium is a natural remedy prepared from the bark of the root of a plant Gelsemium Sempervirens, which is commonly known as Yellow Jasmine. This plant belongs to the natural order Loganiaceae. Gelsemium is indicated for cases of vocal cord paralysis that causes the voice to become weak. A burning sensation in the larynx may also be felt.
Cocculus Indicus – Effective Homeopathic Medicine for Tremulous or Broken Voice in Vocal Cord Paralysis
Homeopathic medicine Cocculus Indicus is prepared from the seeds of a plant named Indian Cockle. The natural order of this plant is Menispermaceae. Cocculus Indicus helps in managing tremulous voice or broken voice in cases of vocal cord paralysis. Oppressed or difficult breathing may be an accompanying symptom.
Lachesis – Effective Homeopathic Remedy for Loss of Voice in Vocal Cord Paralysis
Lachesis offers a natural treatment for loss of voice in cases of vocal cord paralysis. This remedy is most indicated for vocal cord paralysis of the left side. Episodes of choking on eating may also be present along with the above features.
Stannum Met – Natural Homeopathic Medicine for Hoarse and Weak Voice
Homeopathic preparation Stannum Met works well in cases of vocal cord paralysis presented with either hoarse or a weak voice. Hawking mucus may improve voice quality. A need to take frequent deep breaths may accompany the above symptoms.
Nux Vomica – Natural Homeopathic Remedy for Vocal Cord Paralysis with an Inability to Speak Loudly
Nux Vomica is a homeopathic cure indicated for vocal cord paralysis where the person is unable to speak loudly. A frequent throat clearing may be present along with a cough while eating.
Phosphorus – Natural Treatment for Vocal Cord Paralysis with a Hoarse Voice
Phosphorus is another homeopathic medicine that is used to treat hoarseness of voice in cases of vocal cord paralysis. The voice may also be husky or rough. Prolonged speaking worsens the complaint.
Causes of Vocal Cord Paralysis
The causes of vocal cord paralysis include an injury to the vocal cord or recurrent laryngeal/vagus nerve, tumors, certain viral infections, thyroid surgeries, and cancer in rare cases.
Symptoms of Vocal Cord Paralysis
While both the vocal cords may get paralyzed, in most cases only one cord is affected. The symptoms of vocal cord paralysis include – hoarseness of voice, effortful speech, breathy voice, weak voice, vocal fatigue, and inability to speak loudly. Other symptoms that may appear in cases of vocal cord paralysis are – shortness of breath, choking and coughing after eating/drinking, throat clearing and aspiration of food/drink in the lungs.
