Summary about Disease
Vocal cord polyps are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop on the vocal cords, often due to vocal abuse or chronic irritation. They are soft, blister-like lesions that can interfere with vocal cord vibration, leading to changes in voice quality. Unlike vocal cord nodules (calluses), polyps are typically unilateral (occurring on one vocal cord).
Symptoms
Hoarseness
Raspy or breathy voice
Change in vocal pitch (lower or higher)
Vocal fatigue
Globus sensation (feeling of something in the throat)
Throat clearing
Loss of vocal range
Stridor (wheezing sound when breathing, rare)
Causes
Vocal abuse/misuse: Excessive talking, shouting, singing, or chronic coughing.
Smoking: Irritation from cigarette smoke.
Chronic Laryngitis: Long-term inflammation of the larynx.
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid refluxing into the throat.
Allergies: Chronic postnasal drip can irritate the vocal cords.
Hypothyroidism: Rarely, but can contribute.
Medicine Used
Medication isn't typically the primary treatment for polyps, but may be used to manage underlying conditions that contribute to their formation.
Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs): For GERD (e.g., Omeprazole, Lansoprazole).
Antihistamines/Decongestants: For allergies.
Corticosteroids (inhaled or oral): Occasionally used to reduce inflammation, but not a long-term solution.
None: in many cases vocal rest and therapy is used without medicine.
Is Communicable
No, vocal cord polyps are not contagious or communicable.
Precautions
Vocal hygiene: Avoid yelling, screaming, and excessive talking.
Hydration: Drink plenty of water to keep the vocal cords lubricated.
Avoid irritants: Quit smoking, avoid secondhand smoke, and limit exposure to other respiratory irritants.
Treat underlying conditions: Manage GERD and allergies effectively.
Vocal rest: When voice is strained, take vocal rest.
Proper vocal technique: Work with a vocal coach or speech therapist to learn proper vocal techniques.
How long does an outbreak last?
This question is not applicable, as polyps are not an outbreak, but a growth. The duration of symptoms depends on the size and location of the polyp, as well as the underlying cause. Symptoms can persist until the polyp is treated and contributing factors are addressed.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical history and physical exam: Doctor will ask about symptoms and examine the throat.
Laryngoscopy: A procedure where the vocal cords are visualized.
Indirect Laryngoscopy: Using a mirror to view the larynx.
Direct Laryngoscopy: Using a flexible or rigid scope inserted through the nose or mouth.
Videostroboscopy: A specialized laryngoscopy that uses a strobe light to assess vocal cord vibration.
Voice Analysis: Acoustic measurements of voice.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms is usually gradual. There isn't a specific timeline; symptoms develop over time as the polyp grows and interferes with vocal cord function. The rate of growth can vary depending on the underlying cause and individual factors. Symptoms may fluctuate in severity depending on vocal usage.
Important Considerations
Voice rest after surgery: Absolutely crucial for proper healing.
Speech therapy: Often necessary after surgery to rehabilitate the voice and prevent recurrence.
Addressing the underlying cause: Important to prevent new polyp formation.
Follow-up appointments: Essential to monitor healing and vocal cord health.
Ruling out other conditions: While polyps are usually benign, it is important to rule out other, more serious conditions such as vocal cord cancer.