Will the voice change due to vocal cord nodules get better?

Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
Updated on December 13, 2024
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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 Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord nodules require surgery?

Vocal cord nodules refer to symmetrical nodular elevations that appear on the free edges of both vocal cords. These nodules are mostly grain-like or granular protrusions. Vocal cord nodules are often caused by incorrect pronunciation, overuse of the voice, or screaming loudly, which are inappropriate vocal habits. Generally, most vocal cord nodules will disappear on their own after resting the voice, speaking less, and using the voice correctly. Therefore, as explained above, vocal cord nodules do not require surgical treatment. Surgery is only necessary if the vocal cord nodules continue to develop uncontrollably, evolving into vocal cord polyps or other pathological changes.

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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 Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Is surgery necessary for vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules are benign lesions on the vocal cords, primarily characterized by bilateral symmetrical protrusions on the free edge of the vocal cords. These protrusions are small and nodular. The majority of vocal cord nodules do not require surgical intervention and are mainly treated with medication. For those vocal cord nodules that do not improve with medication or voice correction, they may gradually progress to vocal cord polyps or other lesions. Only after an assessment deems surgery appropriate, is surgery considered. Overall, vocal cord nodules do not require surgical treatment.

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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 Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can you drink honey with vocal cord nodules?

Patients with vocal cord nodules can drink honey. Honey is a common food that does not exacerbate the condition of vocal cord nodules, nor does it affect the treatment outcome of vocal cord nodules. However, long-term consumption of honey is not recommended due to its high sugar content, which may lead to excessive sugar intake and impact overall health. For patients with vocal cord nodules, it is necessary to visit an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) department after the onset of symptoms for a laryngoscopy to assess the severity of the condition. Generally, treatment may include oral medications combined with nebulization therapy. During the treatment process, regular follow-ups are needed to monitor the effects of the treatment. (Specific medications should be taken under the guidance of a physician.)