Suggest Treatment For Vocal Cord Nodules
Question: Dear Doctor,
When I was pregnant two years ago, I noticed that my voice started changing. It started to become hoarse and rough. I just assumed that it was one of my pregnancy symptoms. However, this continued even after delivery. I went to a doctor and he inserted a small camera through my nose and checked the voice box. He told me that I have small vocal nodules. They were so small that he just advised to give rest to my voice and not to scream.
I gave a gap of few months and then went for a second check. He said that they have reduced in size and I think he said that one of them almost even disappeared.
I think my voice was getting back to normal sometime ago but however it started to get rough again.
My question is, can the vocal nodules come back again? Is there any treatment for vocal nodules? Can they pose any threat to any other serious complication? Do I need to make any further checks or scans?
Kind regards
XXXX
When I was pregnant two years ago, I noticed that my voice started changing. It started to become hoarse and rough. I just assumed that it was one of my pregnancy symptoms. However, this continued even after delivery. I went to a doctor and he inserted a small camera through my nose and checked the voice box. He told me that I have small vocal nodules. They were so small that he just advised to give rest to my voice and not to scream.
I gave a gap of few months and then went for a second check. He said that they have reduced in size and I think he said that one of them almost even disappeared.
I think my voice was getting back to normal sometime ago but however it started to get rough again.
My question is, can the vocal nodules come back again? Is there any treatment for vocal nodules? Can they pose any threat to any other serious complication? Do I need to make any further checks or scans?
Kind regards
XXXX
Brief Answer:
Vocal nodules are very common.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Yes, vocal nodules can recur if the vocal abuse continues.
2. Ideally one should take voice rest, speech therapy and medication (including steroids) for at least 3 months before considering any further treatment (surgery). Most cases resolve with this protocol.
3. Vocal nodules usually doe not pose any serious threat or complication.
4. You do not need additional scans, just a repeat Videolaryngoscopy (VL'Scopy) or preferably a Stroboscopy / High Speed Camera VL'Scopy. Upload images or videos for an accurate assessment.
I hope I have answered your query. If you have any follow up queries, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Vocal nodules are very common.
Detailed Answer:
Hi,
Thank you for your query.
1. Yes, vocal nodules can recur if the vocal abuse continues.
2. Ideally one should take voice rest, speech therapy and medication (including steroids) for at least 3 months before considering any further treatment (surgery). Most cases resolve with this protocol.
3. Vocal nodules usually doe not pose any serious threat or complication.
4. You do not need additional scans, just a repeat Videolaryngoscopy (VL'Scopy) or preferably a Stroboscopy / High Speed Camera VL'Scopy. Upload images or videos for an accurate assessment.
I hope I have answered your query. If you have any follow up queries, I will be available to answer them.
Regards.
Note: Consult an experienced Otolaryngologist / ENT Specialist online for further follow up on ear, nose, and throat issues - Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar