Summary about Disease
A vocal cord cyst is a fluid-filled sac that develops on one or both of the vocal cords. These cysts can vary in size and location. They are benign (non-cancerous) growths that can interfere with vocal cord vibration, leading to voice changes. The severity of voice impact depends on the cyst's size and location.
Symptoms
Hoarseness
Breathy voice
Strained voice
Voice fatigue
Globus sensation (feeling of a lump in the throat)
Change in vocal pitch
Loss of vocal range
Vocal effort when speaking or singing
Causes
The exact cause of vocal cord cysts is often unknown. However, potential contributing factors include:
Phonotrauma: Vocal abuse or overuse (e.g., excessive yelling, singing incorrectly)
Blocked Glands: Mucus-producing glands within the vocal cords may become blocked.
Congenital: Some cysts may be present from birth (though symptoms might not appear until later).
Medicine Used
There is no medication to eliminate a vocal cord cyst. Treatment primarily focuses on symptom management and surgical removal if necessary. Voice therapy may be recommended to improve vocal technique and reduce strain.
Is Communicable
No, vocal cord cysts are not communicable. They are not caused by an infection and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Voice Rest: Avoid excessive talking or singing, especially when experiencing voice problems.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep vocal cords lubricated.
Vocal Hygiene: Avoid smoking and limit alcohol and caffeine consumption, as these can dehydrate the vocal cords.
Proper Vocal Technique: If you are a professional voice user, work with a voice coach or therapist to learn and maintain proper vocal technique.
Avoid Irritants: Minimize exposure to irritants like smoke, dust, and allergens.
How long does an outbreak last?
Vocal cord cysts themselves don't "outbreak" in the way an infection would. The symptoms related to a vocal cord cyst will persist until the cyst is either surgically removed or the patient adapts their voice use to compensate. Symptoms may fluctuate in severity depending on voice use and other factors.
How is it diagnosed?
Laryngoscopy: A visual examination of the vocal cords using a flexible or rigid endoscope inserted through the nose or mouth.
Stroboscopy: A special type of laryngoscopy that uses a strobe light to visualize vocal cord vibration. This helps to identify subtle abnormalities.
Voice Evaluation: An assessment of voice quality, pitch, loudness, and other vocal characteristics by a speech-language pathologist.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptoms can vary. Some people may experience a gradual onset of hoarseness over weeks or months. Others may notice a sudden change in voice quality after a period of vocal strain. The symptoms will continue until the vocal cord cyst is removed.
Important Considerations
Professional Voice Users: Singers, actors, teachers, and other professional voice users are particularly susceptible to vocal cord problems.
Differential Diagnosis: Other conditions, such as vocal cord nodules, polyps, or papilloma, can cause similar symptoms. It is important to get an accurate diagnosis from an ENT doctor.
Surgical Considerations: If surgery is recommended, discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. Voice therapy is often recommended before and after surgery to optimize vocal function.
Smoking: Smoking can severely irritate the vocal cords and negatively impact voice recovery.