Can vocal cord polyps be cured by taking Chinese medicine?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 03, 2024
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Vocal cord polyps are benign neoplasms on the free edge of our vocal cords. Once vocal cord polyps form, they are difficult to eliminate through medication and are generally removed surgically, as they are usually relatively large. In terms of using Chinese medicine, clinically, we mainly use Chinese patent medicines that clear the throat and benefit the voice. However, these can only serve as an adjunctive treatment and cannot eliminate vocal cord polyps. Therefore, in clinical treatment, surgery is primarily used. Chinese medicine cannot eliminate vocal cord polyps, and this is something we must understand.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Vocal cord polyps should be seen by the ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) department.

Vocal cord polyps are benign neoplasms that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords. Therefore, they are primarily treated in the otolaryngology departments of clinics. In larger comprehensive hospitals, where specialties are more detailed, one might see an expert in the pharyngology or laryngology departments. In traditional Chinese medicine hospitals, patients might visit the department of otorhinolaryngology, which is included within the broader five senses (otorhinolaryngology) department. In general, the treatment of vocal cord polyps is predominantly managed by otolaryngologists, with the main treatment method being surgical removal of the polyps. After surgery, it is recommended to speak less to avoid the recurrence of the polyps.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord polyps cause a sore throat?

Patients with vocal cord polyps usually do not experience throat pain. The pathological basis for the occurrence of vocal cord polyps is edema and hyperplasia in the mucosal layer and Reinke's layer of the vocal cords, with hoarseness being the main symptom. The causes generally involve improper or excessive use of the voice, as well as harmful stimuli such as smoking and drinking, which lead to the proliferation of vocal cord polyps. The main treatments for vocal cord polyps currently include oral medications to clear the throat and benefit the voice, and surgical treatment. Surgical treatment primarily involves the endoscopic removal of the vocal cord polyps with support, and the patient must remain silent for three to four weeks post-surgery to allow the mucosal epithelium to recover, thereby improving the symptoms of hoarseness. (The use of medications should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Is nebulization effective for vocal cord polyps?

Vocal cord polyps refer to benign neoplasms located on the vocal cords. These neoplasms cause hoarseness, which is persistent, and in severe cases, may lead to voice loss or a distinct sensation of a lump when speaking. Clinically, vocal cord polyps are primarily removed through surgery. Nebulized inhalation treatments with medication can help reduce the swelling of the vocal cord polyps and alleviate congestion. Thus, nebulized inhalation plays a definite role in the treatment of vocal cord polyps, but it should not be expected to completely eliminate the polyps, as this is unrealistic and unachievable. Post-surgical nebulized inhalation can help reduce congestion and swelling, and actively aid in the recovery from vocal cord polyp surgery.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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The difference between vocal cord polyps and vocal cord nodules

Vocal cord polyps and vocal cord nodules are diseases caused by incorrect pronunciation or overuse of the voice, with the main clinical manifestation being hoarseness. The difference between vocal cord polyps and vocal cord nodules lies in their appearance under a laryngoscope: Vocal cord polyps often occur on one vocal cord, typically in the anterior one-third where a translucent, smooth swelling is found. This swelling can either have a broad stalk or a smaller stalk, and often, a hole can be observed with respiration. Vocal cord nodules are smaller and usually located symmetrically on the anterior one-third of both vocal cords. This implies that while polyps are commonly found on one vocal cord, nodules occur symmetrically on the anterior one-third of both vocal cords. From a general perspective, vocal cord polyps are wider and larger, whereas vocal cord nodules are only nodular lesions.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can small vocal cord polyps be managed without surgery?

Vocal cord polyps are a fairly common otolaryngological condition. In terms of treatment, if the absorption is minimal, conservative pharmacological treatment is generally considered first rather than surgical intervention. Common treatments include oral medications, often supplemented with nebulization. Typically, with standardized pharmacological treatment, symptoms of hoarseness can gradually improve within one to two weeks. However, regular laryngoscopy follow-ups are necessary to monitor changes in the condition. Additionally, voice training can be considered to improve everyday vocal techniques, which can also help alleviate symptoms of hoarseness. Overall, most patients with minor vocal cord polyps can be successfully treated conservatively. (Specific medication use should be conducted under the guidance of a doctor.)