Vocal Cord Polyps

Exhaustion and Hoarseness May Indicate Vocal Cord Polyps; Severe Cases May Require Surgical Removal

Sylvia is a lawyer, and her long hours of speaking have led to vocal fatigue and hoarseness, sometimes accompanied by pitch problems or loss of voice. The inability to express herself forcefully affects her persuasiveness in court. Determined to seek help from an ENT specialist, she underwent an examination and was diagnosed with a nine-millimeter polyp on her vocal cords, which requires surgical removal and post-operative speech therapy. Her condition is now improving, and her work performance is significantly better.

Dr. LEE Shui Kwong, John, Specialist in Otorhinolaryngology, noted that vocal disorders are not uncommon in Hong Kong, with severe cases potentially leading to vocal cord polyps.

Vocal cord polyps are benign lesions that appear on the vocal cords, typically manifesting as unilateral soft masses that may be translucent, vascular, or denser tissue. Their impact is usually reflected in changes in voice quality and decreased comfort in speaking. This condition can cause considerable disruption to daily life, especially for professionals who rely on their voices. Vocal cord polyps differ from vocal cord nodules, which typically appear symmetrically on both sides.

(Source: Online picture)

Symptoms Should Be Addressed Early

Although vocal cord polyps do not pose a fatal risk, they may trigger a series of symptoms, with hoarseness being just one of them. Other symptoms include:

• Hoarseness: The polyp can impede the normal closure of the vocal cords, leading to a hoarse or rough voice.
• Vocal Fatigue: Patients may experience quick vocal fatigue, especially after prolonged speaking or singing.
• Voice Changes: Variations in voice quality, pitch, and volume may occur.
• Intermittent Loss of Voice: There may be instances of voice loss, particularly after extended use of the vocal cords.
• Respiratory Sounds: Larger polyps may cause additional sounds during breathing, such as wheezing.
• Foreign Body Sensation: Patients may feel a sensation of something lodged in their throat, especially when swallowing.
• Difficulty Swallowing: Although uncommon, larger polyps may affect swallowing.

 

Understanding Causes and Risks for Targeted Management

The formation of vocal cord polyps is usually associated with the following factors:

• Vocal Cord Trauma: Acute or chronic trauma, such as shouting or prolonged overuse of the vocal cords, may lead to polyp formation.
• Occupational Factors: Professionals such as teachers, singers, and actors are more prone to developing vocal cord polyps due to frequent use of their voices.
• Smoking: Smoking irritates the vocal cords, increasing inflammation and the risk of polyps.
• Poor Vocal Techniques: Incorrect speaking methods can increase the risk of vocal fatigue and trauma.
• Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): Acid reflux may irritate the vocal cords, promoting polyp formation.

Cooperative Diagnosis

Diagnosing vocal cord polyps typically requires the following examinations:

• Laryngoscopy: The doctor uses a laryngoscope to observe the state of the vocal cords to confirm the presence of polyps.
• Acoustic Analysis: Collaborating with a speech therapist, voice samples are analyzed to assess voice quality and function, helping to confirm the impact of polyps on voice production.
• Stroboscopy: This technique observes the vibration patterns of the vocal cords, aiding in distinguishing polyps from other vocal cord abnormalities.

Choosing Treatment Based on Patient Condition

Treatment for vocal cord polyps primarily falls into conservative and surgical approaches, depending on the impact of the condition on the patient's daily life.

Conservative Treatment	Surgical Treatment
• Reducing vocal cord use and avoiding shouting can help the polyp heal naturally.	• For polyps that do not improve with conservative measures or significantly affect daily life, laser treatment or surgical removal under laryngoscopic monitoring may be necessary, followed by gradual recovery.
• Working with a speech therapist to learn proper vocal techniques can reduce vocal cord pressure and lower the chances of recurrence.
• Use anti-inflammatory drugs

Lifestyle Changes

• Reducing vocal misuse can help the polyp heal naturally.
• Avoiding smoking and second-hand smoke can reduce irritation to the vocal cords.
• Managing GERD with appropriate treatment can lessen its impact on the vocal cords.

Important Considerations

To reduce the risk of vocal cord polyps, it is advised to:

• Voice Hygiene: Maintaining good voice hygiene is essential, including avoiding excessive shouting, smoking, and throat clearing.
• Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-ups with a specialist are crucial for monitoring healing and preventing recurrence.
• Personalized Treatment: Treatment plans should be tailored to individual needs and the characteristics of the polyp.

While vocal cord polyps are benign lesions, they can affect voice quality and even impact quality of life, particularly for those who need to speak extensively in their work. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are key, and maintaining good vocal habits and a healthy lifestyle can help prevent their formation. If you experience related symptoms, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist for a thorough examination and treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Updated: 2025-09
Please note that all medical health articles featured on our website have been reviewed by Chiron Medical doctors. The articles are for general information only and are not medical opinions nor should the contents be used to replace the need for personal consultation with a qualified health professional on the reader's medical condition.