Laryngeal paralysis affects animals, particularly dogs and horses, and humans. It refers to the paralysis of the muscles in the larynx that cause breathing problems. In animals, it can lead to suffocation if not treated, while in humans, it is often caused by tumors or postoperative conditions. Understanding the anatomy of the larynx is important to understand this condition. Consult a veterinarian or physician for more information.
The term “laryngeal paralysis” is most commonly associated with animals, particularly dogs and horses. Veterinary medicine recognizes this condition as potentially serious as it can cause interference with breathing to the point of emergency. In humans, a similar condition called laryngeal nerve palsy is recognized as causing similar problems. Either way, laryngeal paralysis most simply refers to paralysis of the muscles in the larynx that normally contract and expand during breathing. In other words, the normal function of the larynx is disrupted by the inability of the muscles to function properly.
Laryngeal paralysis in animals is not particularly common, but occurs mostly in larger breed dogs. It can be an inherent condition that affects puppies, but most cases seem to indicate the problem occurs in older dogs for largely unknown reasons. The paralysis can come on gradually over time, posing problems with breathing and panting, and is often indicated by noisy breathing and obvious discomfort. Ultimately, the animal’s distress in breathing can lead to suffocation if veterinary treatment is not received, which may involve oxygen, sedation, and intubation. Laryngeal paralysis in animals may or may not be corrected surgically and some animals will still suffer from ineffective airways.
In humans, laryngeal nerve palsy is most often the result of a tumor, cancer of the larynx, or postoperative condition. In the case of postoperative laryngeal paralysis, this condition is associated with thyroid surgery, although it is considered an uncommon complication. Patients may have unilateral or bilateral laryngeal nerve palsy. Unilateral refers to only one affected side, while bilateral refers to both. Unilateral laryngeal nerve palsy, or unilateral vocal cord paralysis, may not be immediately apparent and may present only as hoarseness or voice change, but it gets worse over days to weeks. In contrast, symptoms of bilateral laryngeal nerve palsy are more immediate and may include respiratory distress or aspiration.
To better understand what happens when part of the larynx suffers from paralysis, we should study the
anatomy
of the larynx. As part of the respiratory system, the larynx serves as the passageway between the pharynx and the
trachea
. Most commonly felt in humans, laryngitis is the
inflammation
of the larynx causing sore throat, hoarseness or loss of voice and difficult or painful swallowing. However, the inflammation present does not cause the muscles inside the larynx to stop working as in laryngeal paralysis.
For more information on this condition in animals, consult your veterinarian. If you have questions or concerns about the function of the larynx or the symptoms of laryngeal conditions and diseases, consult a physician.
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