Can vocal cord nodules heal by themselves?

Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
Updated on September 08, 2024
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Vocal cord nodules, also known as singer's nodules, typically involve symmetrical nodular protrusions at the junction of the anterior and middle thirds of both vocal cords. This condition is commonly seen in individuals who use their voices professionally or excessively, such as actors, teachers, individuals in vocations that require shouting, and children. The primary cause of this condition is attributed to long-term excessive or improper use of the voice. Early stage vocal cord nodules can disappear by allowing the vocal cords to rest sufficiently through voice rest; in children, vocal cord nodules might disappear after puberty. If these nodules do not resolve with conservative treatment and voice rest, medical treatment or surgery may be necessary.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord nodules be cured by taking medicine?

Vocal cord nodules are benign occupying lesions occurring on the free edge of our bilateral vocal cords, and they mainly manifest clinically as progressive hoarseness. Clinically, treatment primarily involves medication. The main treatments are some traditional Chinese medicines that clear the throat, such as Huang's Resounding Pills, and some corticosteroid medications can also be used. In addition to medication, clinical treatment of vocal cord nodules also involves attention to proper vocalization techniques and avoiding the misuse of the voice. With a combination of these methods, the vast majority of cases can be cured, meaning that through medication and proper vocal techniques, most can be healed.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Vocal cord nodules are caused by what?

Vocal cord nodules are mainly caused by improper speaking, excessive speaking, emotional excitement, and shouting. The most common symptom of vocal cord nodules is a hoarse voice. This condition is often seen in people who speak a lot, such as teachers, salespeople, and singers. These include individuals who tend to shout, are impatient, and speak improperly. Such cases are commonly seen in clinics, especially among children. For example, children who shout and speak carelessly at school during the semester may develop vocal cord nodules with hoarseness as a symptom. Additionally, emotionally excitable and impatient people can develop nodules. Some grandparents, who often yell at their children at home, also tend to develop vocal cord nodules. In summary, those who speak too much, shout, mispronounce sounds, or are emotionally excitable are at risk of developing vocal cord nodules.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should I pay attention to for vocal cord nodules usually?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disorder, and there are several aspects to be mindful of in daily life. The first aspect is to avoid excessive use of the voice. Frequent overuse can exacerbate symptoms of hoarseness and potentially worsen the condition of the vocal cord nodules. The second aspect concerns diet; it is advisable to eat lightly and avoid spicy and irritant foods. The third aspect pertains to lifestyle habits; do not smoke or drink alcohol. Both tobacco and alcohol are strong irritants to the mucous membranes and vocal cords, and they can potentially lead to a worsening of the vocal cord nodules.

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
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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.