Laryngeal Paralysis

Anatomy of the larynx (Image Source)

Laryngeal paralysis is a condition many pet owners may not be familiar with. It is typically associated with older, large breed dogs, but in some instances can be seen in smaller dogs. Many people may know that the larynx is the organ responsible for producing vocalization, however it plays a much bigger role in our pet’s breathing than that.  As the larynx moves it allows deep full breathes to be achieved. It also covers the trachea so that when we are eating foreign material is less likely to get into the respiratory tract. In laryngeal paralysis this apparatus does not work appropriately. Therefore it is difficult for patients to achieve adequate breathes and can lead to other respiratory complications.

 

Image Source

Most of the time laryngeal paralysis is a progressive disease, however many times a diagnosis is made after a sudden crisis. Early signs may of this condition may include a change in voice, intermittent coughing, and panting even when resting. In an acute crisis typically the patient is in need of a deep breathe, but cannot take one and begins to panic and it becomes a vicious cycle or panic and rapid breathing. In these cases a trip to the vet is warranted, and sometimes sedation may be necessary.

 

Diagnosis can be difficult and needs sedation and sometimes advanced equipment (Image Source)

Definitively diagnosing laryngeal paralysis can be difficult. This is because sedation is required as we need to view the back of the throat and visualize the larynx. With over sedation the larynx will be paralyzed, but with under sedation the patient will not allow us to view the necessary areas. There are special drugs that can be administered once sedation is achieved so the patient will take several deep breathes and we are able to assess how the larynx is functioning.

 

Surgery can be pretty invasive and lead to other side effects, but may help improve your pets quality of life (Image Source)

Once a diagnosis is made, there are several treatment options, however none of them are 100% effective or without side effects. To leave laryngeal paralysis untreated, would lead to repeated bouts of respiratory distress that could eventually lead to unconsciousness and even death (in extreme cases). Some areas at home that will help is trying to keep patients as calm and cool as possible, managing any secondary effects (such as aspiration pneumonia or megaesophagus, which are conditions we will talk about in future blogs), and keeping the patient lean as extra weight makes it difficult to breathe. There are surgical procedures that can help with the laryngeal function. In many cases this will need to be performed by a board certified surgeon. There are definite risks to the procedure and life style changes that will have to made post-surgery. Working with your veterinarians will help determine which options will be the best for you and your pet.

 

Older labs are some of the more common dogs we see affected by laryngeal paralysis (Image Source)

If you notice any change in your pets breathing it is always best to have them examined by your veterinarian, before things become too advanced. For more information on laryngeal paralysis, you can view the following websites here and here.