Nonnie's Corner

Vocal Chord agony

Okay dudes and dudettes, Here is the skinny on my appointment with the ENT Doc. It has been 7 plus months since my voice started changing and eventually has become nonexistent at times. The doc in August said to give it at least 6 months and it should start coming back. So I went to the ENT in Cedar City today. The left vocal chord is showing no signs of movement. Not even twitching. He feels that it should have returned to normal by now and the fact there is no sign of movement means it will need intervention. So.... I have to go to a specialist in Salt Lake City who will attach electrodes and sensors to the chords to see if the left one shows any sign that would indicate messing with it will bring about good results. If not...I will sound like a chain-smoking 60-year-old for the rest of my life. If it does show that improvement is possible then there are a couple of different surgeries that could be performed depending on their findings.
There isn't a doctor in the area that could perform the tests or procedures. It evidently is a specialty area.
One option is to wait 'til our move to Bakersfield and then find a specialist at UCLA. I have some options with people in town that make regular trips to SLC. So I'm going to continue to ask around and see what I can find out. There is no pain involved with having the paralyzed chord, but it does cause problems with my airway at times, and that hinders any knowledge of progress with the Pulmonary Hypertension. Plus it makes it hard to understand me.
I still love to talk and I do not get upset if you need me to repeat something. Sometimes I have to repeat it, just cuz I know I didn't hear it so I know whoever's listening couldn't possibly have gotten it. Also NOT talking (besides not being a very good option for me) has had no effect.
What caused it? Both docs just say "more than likely a virus". As always, Thank-you for keeping me in your thoughts and prayers. They are felt and appreciated.
Love Non
P.s. I just finished my 6th Physical Rehab appointment and I am building stamina with each visit. All is well in Cedar City.
Nonnie

posted by Nonnie @ 4:40 PM