Choking/Coughing Spasms

[soprano2]

In February of '03, I had a Carotid Body Tumor removed from my right Carotid Bulb.  At this time, I was diagnosed with (2) more benign Paranganglioma Tumors on both sides of my vagus nerve (1- high on right side and 1- mid way on my left side.)  Both are very slow growing.  Post-surgery, I experienced several things which have not subsided.  1.  My soprano voice is gone.  This is disappointing, but manageable.  2.  I have extreme coughing and choking spasms that can happen at any time night or day.  It begins with a tickle just to the right of my adams apple (where my surgical scar begins), and after that the coughing/choking begins.  I have never had heartburn, but my doctor did prescribe me reflux medicine which did nothing.  I have had a Barium Swallow and a Modified Barium Swallow, each with no negative results.  I have seen a pulmonary doctor, who prescribed me asthma medication, which after 5 months, no change.  Anyone with any ideas?  I am desperate.  I can be in a public place and if I do not have water or mints, and I have an episode, I am helpless.  My doctor (otolarygologist) does not feel that the remaining tumors have anything to do with the recurring spasms and cannot give me any reason for the spasms.

Please help.

[National Jewish]

Your information suggests that the problems you have had since the surgery were probably caused by the surgery. Some of your symptoms may be caused by the location of the 2 benign tumors.  They may be close enough to the vagus nerve to be irritating to it and other nearby nerves.
I suggest that you consult with a head and neck surgeon with great experience.  You can find one at the Memorial Sloane Kettering Hospital in New York City or the MD Anderson Hospital in Houston, Texas

[Concerned lady]

The vagus nerve may have been damaged, during the surgical removal of the tumors. The vagus nerve and its branches control many, many, body parts, including small intestine, stomach, esophagus, vocal cords, etc.

If I were you, I would ask your surgeon about whether the vagus nerve (or branches of the vagus) was possibly damaged during the surgery, possibly contributing to your coughing & choking episodes.

Also, ask the surgeon if the tumors might possibly be returning, pressing on your vagus nerve, etc.

You can also speak with a LUNG LINE nurse, by calling the LUNG LINE, at 1-800-222-LUNG(5864), between 8am & 4:30pm, Mountain daylight savings time.

Good luck to you!

Sincerely,
Concerned lady
http://cantbreathesuspectvcd.com