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Suggest Treatment For Swallowing Difficulty And Improper Closure Of Epiglottis
Question: I'm male, 23 -6,4" and currently weigh 180. My epiglottis is paralyzed due to a possible weight lifting spinal injury 2 years ago. My neurologist thought it may be Parsons XXXXXXX Syndrome back then. At that time I weighed 205, was a non-smoker and a very healthy eater in great physical shape. My medical team consists of a neurologist, ENT Doctor, and a speech therapist. Initially, I had choking fits, coughed up huge amounts of mucus, lost 45lbs., my left arm atrophied, and I couldn't swallow food. In the first three months I found a way to swallow using copious amounts of fluids to wash food down. My ENT Doctor cannot believe I haven't died of pneumonia. I still cough up a lot of mucus every day. Recent test with dyed pudding shows the pudding seeping into my lungs. I'm at a loss at what my medical condition is called? I need to know what specialist's/team of doctors I should consult for my illness. I can't find much information on paralysis of the epiglottis. Are there any specialist who've dealt with this issue, and where or what institutions are they located? Is surgery an option for me?
Brief Answer:
surgery- last resort.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I had gone through your question and understand your concerns that you are having swallowing with recurrent respiratory tract issues.
Based on your clinical details, it appears to be swallowing dysfunction secondary to improper closure of epiglottis.
In case of resistant cases (chronic) swallowing problems, surgery is the last resort (failed postural techniques or failed diet modifications) from speech or swallowing therapist.
In my opinion, you need to see a onco surgeon or head and neck surgeon (who preferably does larynx surgery) for prevention of recurrent lung infections. These are radical surgeries, where you may loose nasal breathing and voice.
Hope this answers your question, if you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
surgery- last resort.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
I had gone through your question and understand your concerns that you are having swallowing with recurrent respiratory tract issues.
Based on your clinical details, it appears to be swallowing dysfunction secondary to improper closure of epiglottis.
In case of resistant cases (chronic) swallowing problems, surgery is the last resort (failed postural techniques or failed diet modifications) from speech or swallowing therapist.
In my opinion, you need to see a onco surgeon or head and neck surgeon (who preferably does larynx surgery) for prevention of recurrent lung infections. These are radical surgeries, where you may loose nasal breathing and voice.
Hope this answers your question, if you have additional questions or follow up questions then please do not hesitate in writing to us. I will be happy to answer your questions.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Veerisetty Shyamkumar
Answered by
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