Pharyngeal Paralysis

Pharyngeal paralysis is weakness/paralysis of the soft palate/pharyngeal muscles, due to neurogenic causes (brainstem stroke, bulbar palsy, Guillain-Barre, poliomyelitis), surgery, or toxins, presenting with dysphagia, nasal regurgitation, hoarse voice, and aspiration. Treatment: evaluate neurogenic cause (neurology/imaging); swallow therapy (logopedics); diet modification; nasogastric/PEG feeding if aspiration; manage airway; treat underlying disease; prognosis by cause.

Common Symptoms

Dysphagia; nasal regurgitation; hoarse voice; aspiration; neurogenic signs

Causes and Pathogenesis

Brainstem/cranial-nerve lesions cause palatal/pharyngeal muscle paralysis.

Treatment

Evaluate neurogenic cause; swallow therapy; diet/feeding support; airway; treat underlying

Preventive Measures

Treat neurologic disease; aspiration precautions.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the ENT/Neurology/Logopedics/GI department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.