Can vocal cord nodules be treated without surgery?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on January 18, 2025
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Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In treatment, most patients may not require surgery. Generally, it is recommended to first visit an otolaryngologist for a laryngoscopic examination to assess the severity of the vocal cord nodules. If the nodules are small and the symptoms of hoarseness are not particularly severe, treatment usually involves conservative medication, commonly oral medications and nebulization therapy. In addition, voice rehabilitation training can be conducted. Many patients experience gradual improvement in voice hoarseness and reduction of the vocal cord nodules through this treatment. Some patients may even see the nodules disappear, but regular follow-up visits are necessary as there is a possibility of recurrence.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord nodules require hospitalization?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition, generally not requiring hospitalization. Initially, it is recommended to visit an ENT outpatient clinic for a laryngoscopy to assess the severity of the condition. Treatment usually involves outpatient medication, commonly using nebulization therapy, in combination with oral traditional Chinese medicine and vocal rehabilitation training. With these treatments, the condition gradually improves. For a small portion of patients with severe vocal cord nodules and significant hoarseness, if conservative treatment does not relieve symptoms, hospitalization and surgery may be considered.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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What department should I go to for vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules are a common and frequently occurring disease in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, so it is advisable to first visit the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery department when seeking medical treatment.In some hospitals, there are specialized departments such as the laryngology department or a sub-discipline specifically for laryngology, where one can opt to see a throat specialist or a laryngologist.Additionally, in some hospitals where the departments are not specifically divided, the ophthalmology and otolaryngology departments are combined and referred to as the department of otorhinolaryngology, so one can also visit this department.Vocal cord nodules are a common disease in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, therefore, one should primarily consult the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery department.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can vocal cord nodules be treated without surgery?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In treatment, most patients may not require surgery. Generally, it is recommended to first visit an otolaryngologist for a laryngoscopic examination to assess the severity of the vocal cord nodules. If the nodules are small and the symptoms of hoarseness are not particularly severe, treatment usually involves conservative medication, commonly oral medications and nebulization therapy. In addition, voice rehabilitation training can be conducted. Many patients experience gradual improvement in voice hoarseness and reduction of the vocal cord nodules through this treatment. Some patients may even see the nodules disappear, but regular follow-up visits are necessary as there is a possibility of recurrence.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can you eat fish with vocal cord nodules?

Patients with vocal cord nodules can eat fish, as fish is a common food and it does not have direct side effects or exacerbate existing symptoms related to vocal cord nodules, nor does it conflict with medications used to treat vocal cord nodules. It is recommended that patients with vocal cord nodules adopt a lighter diet, avoid spicy and irritating foods, and it is advised not to smoke or drink alcohol. Regular check-ups at an otolaryngology department are also recommended. If symptoms like hoarseness occur, it is necessary to combine treatment with traditional Chinese medicine taken orally and nebulization therapy. During the treatment process, regular check-ups are required to observe the treatment effects, and a small number of patients may need surgical treatment. (Please follow the guidance of a professional physician regarding medication usage.)

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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Treatment methods for vocal cord nodules

The treatment is primarily divided into conservative treatment and surgical treatment. Generally, conservative treatment is implemented first. The main strategy of conservative treatment is vocal rest, which entails speaking as little as possible, typically for a duration of two to four weeks. Concurrently, medication is administered, often through nebulized inhalation therapy. The second approach is surgical treatment, which is considered if the conservative treatment does not yield satisfactory results, or if the condition worsens. At this point, surgical treatment of vocal cord nodules is typically performed using support laryngoscopy, microscopy, and either laser or fiber instruments to remove the vocal cord nodules. Post-surgery, a period of vocal rest is necessary for recovery, also lasting two to four weeks. During the recovery period, it is important to speak less, use proper phonation, avoid smoking and alcohol, follow a light diet, and steer clear of spicy and irritating foods.