Vocal Cord Lesions: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of vocal cord lesions?

Symptoms of vocal cord lesions can vary depending on the type, size, and location of the lesion. Common symptoms include:

• Hoarseness: A common symptom where the voice sounds raspy, breathy, or strained.
• Voice Changes: Noticeable changes in pitch, volume, or quality of the voice.
• Throat Pain: Discomfort or pain in the throat, which may be aggravated by speaking or singing.
• Sore Throat: A persistent or recurrent sore throat that doesn’t improve with typical treatments.
• Difficulty Speaking: Trouble speaking clearly or projecting the voice.
• Breathiness: A breathy quality to the voice, where it sounds weak or airy.
• Laryngitis Symptoms: Similar symptoms to laryngitis, including a dry cough or feeling of a lump in the throat.
• Voice Fatigue: Increased effort or fatigue when speaking or singing.
• Coughing: Frequent coughing, sometimes with an urge to clear the throat.

If any of these symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan.

What are the causes of vocal cord lesions?

Vocal cord lesions can arise from various causes, including:

• Chronic Voice Use: Excessive use of the voice, such as frequent talking, singing, or shouting, can lead to stress and strain on the vocal cords, resulting in lesions.
• Smoking: Tobacco smoke irritates the vocal cords, leading to inflammation and the development of lesions.
• Reflux Disease: Acid reflux can irritate and damage the vocal cords, causing lesions.
• Infections: Viral or bacterial infections, such as laryngitis or papillomavirus infections, can cause lesions on the vocal cords.
• Allergies: Allergic reactions can lead to inflammation and irritation of the vocal cords.
• Trauma or Injury: Direct trauma to the throat or vocal cords, such as from intubation or injury, can cause lesions.
• Voice Disorders: Conditions like vocal cord nodules (singer’s nodules) or polyps result from vocal cord strain and can cause lesions.
• Tumors: Benign or malignant tumors on the vocal cords can present as lesions.
• Autoimmune Disorders: Certain autoimmune conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus, can affect the vocal cords and lead to lesions.

Identifying the underlying cause is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and management for vocal cord lesions.

What is the treatment for vocal cord lesions?

The treatment for vocal cord lesions depends on the type, cause, and severity of the lesions. Common approaches include:

• Voice Rest: Reducing or avoiding voice use can help heal vocal cord lesions caused by overuse or strain.
• Voice Therapy: A speech-language pathologist may provide exercises and techniques to improve vocal cord function and reduce strain.
• Medications: For lesions related to inflammation or infection, medications such as corticosteroids or antibiotics may be prescribed.
• Lifestyle Changes: Avoiding irritants like smoking and managing acid reflux can help prevent further damage to the vocal cords.
• Surgical Intervention: In cases where lesions are severe or persistent, surgical procedures may be necessary to remove nodules, polyps, or tumors.
• Treatment of Underlying Conditions: Addressing underlying causes such as allergies, infections, or autoimmune disorders can help resolve vocal cord lesions.
• Follow-up Care: Regular monitoring and follow-up with an ENT specialist or voice therapist can ensure proper recovery and prevent recurrence.

Consultation with a healthcare provider, especially an otolaryngologist or speech-language pathologist, is essential for determining the most appropriate treatment plan based on individual needs and the specific nature of the lesions.