Vocal Cord Polyps: An Overview

Vocal cord polyps are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop on one or both vocal cords. These polyps typically result from vocal strain, irritation, or injury and can affect voice quality by causing hoarseness or breathiness. Common in individuals who use their voices frequently or forcefully, such as singers, teachers, or public speakers, vocal cord polyps can vary in size and shape, appearing either as small, fluid-filled bumps or larger, blister-like formations. Early treatment and voice therapy can often resolve the issue, but in severe cases, surgical removal may be necessary.

Condition Name:
Vocal Cord Polyps

Also Known As:
Vocal Fold Polyps, Laryngeal Polyps

Symptoms:
- Hoarseness or breathy voice
- Raspy or rough voice quality
- Frequent voice breaks
- Reduced vocal range (particularly in singers)
- Feeling of something stuck in the throat
- Persistent coughing or throat clearing
- Difficulty projecting the voice or speaking loudly
- Vocal fatigue after talking for short periods

Causes:
- Vocal abuse or overuse: Yelling, screaming, or prolonged voice use (common among singers, teachers, and public speakers).
- Smoking: Irritation from smoke can lead to polyp formation on the vocal cords.
- Chronic sinusitis: Post-nasal drip from sinus issues can irritate the vocal cords over time.
- Allergies: Repeated throat clearing due to allergies can strain the vocal cords.
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD): Stomach acid that reaches the vocal cords can irritate them and cause polyps.
- Trauma or injury to the vocal cords: A single instance of vocal trauma, such as shouting or forceful coughing, can lead to a polyp.

Diagnosis:
- Laryngoscopy: A flexible or rigid scope is inserted through the nose or mouth to visualize the vocal cords and check for polyps.
- Stroboscopy: This specialized examination uses a strobe light to assess the movement of the vocal cords in slow motion, helping to detect abnormalities like polyps.
- Voice evaluation: A speech-language pathologist may assess the patient's voice quality and vocal habits to help determine the underlying cause of the polyp.

Treated by:
Otolaryngologist (ENT specialist), Speech-Language Pathologist

Treatment Options:
Treatment for vocal cord polyps depends on the size, location, and impact on the patient’s voice. In many cases, non-surgical options such as voice therapy are effective, but surgical intervention may be required if the polyp does not improve.

- Non-surgical treatments:
  - Voice therapy: A speech-language pathologist can work with patients to reduce vocal strain, improve vocal technique, and encourage healing of the vocal cords.
  - Lifestyle changes: Avoiding smoking, managing allergies or acid reflux, and practicing proper vocal hygiene can help prevent further irritation.
  - Resting the voice: Allowing the vocal cords time to heal by reducing or temporarily stopping voice use can help shrink the polyp.
  - Medications: In cases where GERD or allergies are contributing factors, medications like antacids or antihistamines can reduce irritation of the vocal cords.
  
- Surgical treatments:
  - Microsurgical removal: In cases where polyps do not respond to conservative treatment, surgery may be necessary. A surgeon uses specialized instruments to remove the polyp without damaging the surrounding tissue.
  - Phonomicrosurgery: A precise form of surgery where a microscope is used to remove the polyp while preserving vocal cord function, common for professional voice users.

What are Vocal Cord Polyps?

Vocal cord polyps are benign growths that occur due to vocal overuse, trauma, or irritation. These polyps develop on the vocal cords, typically on one side, and can lead to hoarseness, voice fatigue, and difficulty speaking. While most polyps are small and can resolve with voice therapy and rest, larger or persistent polyps may require surgical removal. Polyps differ from vocal cord nodules, which are typically smaller and occur on both vocal cords.

Commonly Affected Groups:
- Singers, teachers, public speakers, and others who use their voices professionally
- Smokers
- Individuals with chronic allergies or acid reflux
- People who frequently strain or abuse their voice

Results and Recovery:
With appropriate treatment, the prognosis for vocal cord polyps is generally good. Voice therapy and lifestyle modifications can lead to significant improvement for most patients. In cases where surgery is required, recovery is typically swift, with patients returning to normal voice function within a few weeks. After surgery, voice therapy may be recommended to prevent recurrence and ensure optimal voice use. It’s crucial to follow the doctor’s advice regarding vocal rest and rehabilitation to prevent long-term damage to the vocal cords.

Prevention:
- Proper vocal technique: Learning how to use the voice efficiently can prevent strain and reduce the risk of developing polyps.
- Avoid vocal abuse: Minimize yelling, screaming, or talking loudly for extended periods.
- Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water keeps the vocal cords lubricated and reduces the risk of irritation.
- Avoid smoking: Smoking irritates the vocal cords and increases the risk of polyps.
- Manage allergies and acid reflux: Controlling underlying conditions that cause throat irritation can help prevent polyp formation.

Vocal cord polyps are manageable with early detection and proper treatment. With lifestyle changes, voice therapy, and, if necessary, surgery, most individuals can recover fully and regain normal voice function.