How do I know if I have a vocal cord nodule

What are vocal cord nodules?

Nodules are a pathology, something similar to a “fall”, and can appear in the vocal cords by forcing our voice. When we force our voice we squeeze the vocal cords and, when we repeatedly collide, this “drop” appears in both cords.

Nodules can cause different symptoms:

  • Reduction of the range of notes that can be sung.
  • Breaks in the voice.
  • More raspy voice.
  • Presence of air in the voice.

Why do nodules appear in the vocal cords?

There are several causes for which they appear, that we can summarize in forcing our voice in a long time. Some cases in which this effort is produced are usually:

  • In singers without technique.
  • In singers who strain their voice.
  • In people who work a lot with their voice, such as teachers, gym instructors, etc.

Can the appearance of nodules on the vocal cords be serious?

The severity will depend on the size and the time that elapses until a specialist is consulted. Generally, if treated at an early stage it is a minor ailment, with a very favorable prognosis.

If a specialist is not consulted at an early stage, the nodule will probably become larger and may lead to more serious pathologies for the patient, even losing the voice in the most extreme cases.

In this sense, we must emphasize that losing the voice is not normal, despite being something considered “usual”. It is a situation that we have very normalized, but it could even be a sign of serious diseases such as cancer.

When we lose our voice recurrently or for several days, it is important to have a check-up with a specialist in Otorhinolaryngology. From there, he/she will make the appropriate referral, in many cases to a speech therapy specialist.

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You should see an otolaryngologist when you notice changes in your voice, for example:

  • Noticing a deeper voice.
  • Sore throat when speaking.
  • Loss of voice on a regular basis.

Is a nodule the same as a tumor?

It is a completely different thing. Unlike a tumor, a nodule is not a malignant tissue, but a repeated bump in an area of your body.

What does a speech therapist do?

The speech therapist teaches you how to speak, how to sing and how to use your voice without hurting yourself. In short, how to position the vocal cords properly to prevent damage.

Likewise, the specialist will advise the patient on the things he/she should and should not do:

  • What foods to eat.
  • Habits to follow.
  • Exercises that help to position the vocal cords correctly, in a natural way.

The treatment will vary depending on the patient, but usually ranges between one and two months, with a weekly session. In other words, in about 8 to 10 sessions the problem could be solved.

What advice can we follow to prevent nodules?

  • Keep well hydrated.
  • Take 10-minute breaks for every hour spoken.
  • Do not take mint.
  • Do not drink alcohol or carbonated beverages.
  • Warm up and cool down the voice before and after work.
  • Avoid smoking.
  • Use caution when cleaning with bleach and ammonia (aerate the area and protect the respiratory tract).
  • Keep in mind that certain medications are also very drying, such as those for allergies. When we take them, we must hydrate even more.