Vocal cord polyps rarely cause breathing difficulties, but for some patients with large vocal cord polyps, there is a possibility of gradually developing breathing difficulties.

Vocal cord polyps are often due to patients overusing their voice, or from physical and chemical factors such as irritations from smoking and alcohol, which then lead to edema of the vocal cord mucosa. Prolonged irritation can gradually form vocal cord polyps, and the main symptoms include a hoarse voice, throat pain, and difficulty breathing.

Once vocal cord polyps are discovered, they generally need to be treated surgically. Smaller vocal cord polyps can also be treated with medication. If medication is ineffective, surgical treatment can also be considered.