Kay Kay Menon opens up about malaria diagnosis: ‘My voice is still not in order’

IndianExpress.com tried contacting the actor over the phone and messages but did not receive a reply.

Taking a cue, let’s understand the causes of malaria and how it can affect one’s voice.

Malaria, a parasitic infection transmitted by mosquitoes, can significantly impact voice and speech, particularly in severe cases like cerebral malaria, said Dr Deepti Sinha, lead consultant, Dept of ENT, CK Birla Hospital (R), Delhi.

According to Dr Sinha, symptoms such as fever, chills, cough, nausea, and vomiting may lead to hoarseness of voice.

“In the most serious form, cerebral malaria can cause central nervous system injuries, resulting in vocal cord paralysis and speech impairments, affecting vocabulary, phonology, and both receptive and expressive language abilities,” said Dr Sinha.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery from voice-related issues generally takes weeks to months, depending on the severity of the infection and neurological damage, said Dr Sinha.

Here’s how malaria happened (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

“To expedite vocal recovery, it is essential to adhere to the prescribed antimalarial treatment, stay well-hydrated, and rest the voice. Inhaling steam can help soothe irritated vocal cords,” said Dr Sinha.

“Some patients may require speech therapy to address ongoing deficits and regain effective communication skills, emphasising the importance of comprehensive care during the recovery process,” said Dr Sinha.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.