Can vocal cord nodules be treated with medication?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 02, 2024
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Vocal cord nodules are small, dot-like or nodular protrusions occurring on the free edges of both vocal cords. These protrusions are quite small, and are primarily diagnosed using an electronic laryngoscope in clinical settings. For the treatment of vocal cord nodules, we can use certain medications, such as Huang's Resonant Voice Pills and Qingyin Sanjie Pills, which generally have relatively good effects. However, in clinical practice, we cannot rely solely on medication to treat vocal cord nodules. It is fundamental in the treatment of vocal cord nodules to avoid misuse of the voice. Attention must be paid to the training of correct pronunciation methods. Only through such measures can vocal cord nodules be fully treated, preventing recurrence or further development into vocal cord polyps.

Other Voices

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
1min 2sec home-news-image

Will there be a change in voice after vocal cord nodule surgery?

Vocal cord nodules commonly develop symmetrically at the anterior-middle third of both vocal cords. After the surgery for this condition, the hoarseness in the voice might initially worsen compared to before the surgery, particularly during the recovery period. After the surgery, it's crucial to rest the voice, meaning speaking less. Voice rest also includes proper phonation, which entails speaking correctly or not at all. It is advised to limit speaking to no more than five sentences per day. Moreover, during recovery, the voice may initially sound more hoarse than before the surgery but it should return to a state similar to that before the surgery once fully recovered. If after the surgery and subsequent recovery, the voice does not vary significantly from its pre-surgery state, this is generally the expected outcome. However, it isn't guaranteed 100%, as variations can occur depending on whether adequate voice rest was taken and whether proper phonation techniques were employed post-surgery.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
49sec home-news-image

Can vocal cord nodules be treated with medication?

Vocal cord nodules are small, dot-like or nodular protrusions occurring on the free edges of both vocal cords. These protrusions are quite small, and are primarily diagnosed using an electronic laryngoscope in clinical settings. For the treatment of vocal cord nodules, we can use certain medications, such as Huang's Resonant Voice Pills and Qingyin Sanjie Pills, which generally have relatively good effects. However, in clinical practice, we cannot rely solely on medication to treat vocal cord nodules. It is fundamental in the treatment of vocal cord nodules to avoid misuse of the voice. Attention must be paid to the training of correct pronunciation methods. Only through such measures can vocal cord nodules be fully treated, preventing recurrence or further development into vocal cord polyps.

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
1min 17sec home-news-image

How to treat vocal cord nodules

Vocal cord nodules, also known as singer's nodules, are typically located at the junction of the anterior and middle thirds of both vocal cords, featuring symmetrical nodular protrusions. They are more commonly found in individuals who use their voices professionally, such as singers, teachers, or other vocations that involve frequent shouting, as well as in children. Prolonged or improper use of the voice is a major cause of this condition. Therefore, during treatment, voice rest is primarily advised. Early stage vocal cord nodules can spontaneously resolve with sufficient vocal rest, and nodules in children often disappear naturally during puberty. Additionally, medication can be used for treatment, such as traditional Chinese medicines, including Jin Sang San Jie Wan and Kai Yin Pills. If conservative treatment fails, surgical removal of the vocal cord nodules under fiberoptic laryngoscopy can be performed, followed by a two-week voice rest period. Post-surgery, it is recommended to inhale medicated vapors, avoid spicy and irritating foods, drink plenty of water, avoid staying up late, and refrain from excessive voice use or shouting.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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Will the voice change due to vocal cord nodules get better?

After surgery for vocal cord nodules, the voice will definitely improve and will not cause persistent hoarseness. Vocal cord nodules are vocal cord lesions caused by improper use of the voice over a long time, such as loud shouting or fatigue, and are commonly seen in teachers and singers. They can cause persistent hoarseness in patients and progressively worsen. Generally, vocal cord nodules occur bilaterally. Examination with an electronic laryngoscope reveals a symmetrical, pale white, smooth-surfaced neoplasm in the anterior-middle third of both vocal cords, with good vocal cord mobility and incomplete closure of the glottis. In terms of treatment, patients need to undergo vocal cord nodule removal surgery under supported laryngoscopy. The surgery requires hospitalization under general anesthesia, and patients can usually recover and be discharged a week after surgery.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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The best treatment method for vocal cord nodules

Vocal cord nodules are often caused by excessive talking, loud speaking, or overuse of the voice. They are commonly found in individuals who frequently use their voices in their professions, such as salespeople, teachers, and singers. The best treatment approach is to address the root cause, which involves speaking less and using proper vocal techniques. This is the optimal treatment plan. However, this method may not always be effective, as some people, due to their occupational needs, cannot fully achieve vocal rest. If vocal rest does not effectively treat the condition, surgical intervention may then be necessary. During the treatment period, after diagnosing vocal cord nodules, vocal rest is the preferred approach. If vocal rest is ineffective or does not fully resolve the nodules, surgery may be required as a follow-up treatment.