Vocal Cord Nodules & Polyps

The vocal cords play a crucial role in helping us form spoken words. In order to speak, air is moved from the lungs to the vocal cords and up to the mouth. The pressure from the air causes the vocal cords to vibrate, which helps create sound.

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When abnormal growths such as nodules and polyps are found on the vocal cords, it can impact their ability to vibrate. This, in turn, can make it difficult to speak normally.

Treatment Methods for Vocal Cord Nodules and Polyps

The treatment for vocal cord nodules and polyps will depend on their impact and their cause. The size of the nodule or polyp is one of the primary factors that will be considered when your provider is preparing a treatment plan.

To determine a treatment plan, your provider may choose to perform an exam and further testing. This can include acid reflux testing, endoscopic throat and voice box inspection, or allergy testing. Testing or surgery for the thyroid may also be ordered as necessary.

If the nodules or polyps have grown large enough, surgery may be used to remove them. Your provider may also choose to perform surgery if the nodule or polyp has been in place for an extended period of time.

More About Vocal Cord Nodules and Polyps

Vocal cord nodules and polyps are benign growths that can stem from vocal mistreatment. When you misuse or overuse your voice, they can become swollen and firm, and eventually form nodules. If you continue to misuse your voice, the nodules may continue to grow. Speech therapy can help patients learn to stop misusing their voices and help prevent nodules and polyps from forming in the future.

Vocal Cord Nodule and Polyp Symptoms

Vocal cord nodules and polyps often appear as swollen spots or a bump on the vocal cords. On average, polyps are larger than nodules and tend to look more like a blister. Patients may also experience other symptoms along with the nodules or polyps such as:

Hoarseness
Scratchy voice
Breathiness
Pain from ear to ear
Difficulty changing pitch
Vocal tiredness
Neck pain

Your Treatment with SFENTA

SFENTA has been part of South Florida for over 30 years. During this time, we’ve continued to expand and now have one of the largest networks of ENT providers and over 30 locations. Our staff — including over 50 providers, 40 allied professionals, and a team of administrative support — have made it their mission to provide comprehensive care for patients of all ages. This is achieved through:

Patient-Centered Care

Each appointment includes one-on-one care with our team of physicians, ensuring each of your concerns receives the time and attention they deserve.

Continuity of Care

Our staff strives for care that offers you long-term relief from the symptoms that are impacting your life and future.

A Network of Highly Trained Physicians

With over 50 board-certified physicians and 40 allied professionals, we’ve ensured we’re prepared to help address a wide range of ENT symptoms and conditions.

The Security of a Community Staple

After helping patients in the South Florida community for over 30 years, you can feel confident in your care with SFENTA.