What should be noted for vocal cord polyps?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on November 28, 2024
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Vocal cord polyps are benign space-occupying lesions on our vocal cords. It is important to note that vocal cord polyps should be surgically removed promptly since once formed, they are unlikely to completely disappear with medication alone. Secondly, after surgery for vocal cord polyps, it is crucial to rest your voice, avoid talking too much, and refrain from shouting loudly, among other activities. Thirdly, diet should be nutritionally rich and light, easily digestible. Avoid using substances that are spicy and irritating, such as cigarettes, alcohol, and chili peppers. Additionally, if there are any pulmonary diseases, like gastroesophageal reflux disease, they should be actively treated.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Can people with vocal cord polyps eat beef?

Patients with vocal cord polyps can eat beef. Beef is a common type of meat and does not have any side effects on vocal cord polyps, nor does it exacerbate the condition or affect the treatment outcomes. It does not directly conflict with medications used to treat vocal cord polyps. For patients with vocal cord polyps, it is recommended to follow a light diet and avoid spicy and irritating foods, smoking, and drinking alcohol. Additionally, timely medical treatment should be considered. For some patients where the condition of the vocal cord polyps is severe and medical treatment is ineffective, surgery may need to be considered.

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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 Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord polyps require surgery?

Vocal cord polyps generally do not require surgery. If the polyps are relatively small or if the symptoms of hoarseness are not obvious, surgery is usually not necessary, and medication can be considered. The treatment is primarily through oral medications, combined with nebulization therapy. If possible, professional voice training can also be considered. Most patients can gradually recover through conservative treatment. However, if the polyps are large and cause noticeable hoarseness, surgery might be needed. Post-surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary, but such surgeries are usually minimally invasive, performed under a laryngoscope, and do not involve significant external injuries.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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What does it feel like to have vocal cord polyps?

Vocal cord polyps generally do not cause any special sensations by themselves, but some patients may experience pain, stiffness, and fatigue. The main symptom is a hoarse voice, meaning the voice becomes raspier than before, making it difficult to articulate, especially when trying to sing or speak in high tones. In addition to hoarseness, other symptoms can include a feeling of vocal fatigue, throat pain, and an irritating cough. However, these symptoms can vary from person to person, with hoarseness being the primary manifestation.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Why does vocal cord polyp surgery require general anesthesia?

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common type of ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) disorder. For larger polyps where conservative treatment with medication is ineffective, surgical treatment should be considered. Currently, the main surgical procedure is the excision of vocal cord polyps under a supported laryngoscope, which requires general anesthesia. This is because the procedure is difficult for patients to endure without general anesthesia, as the supported laryngoscope is a type of metal tube that needs to be inserted through the mouth into the pharynx. Local anesthesia would be insufficient as patients might struggle to cooperate and tolerate the pain or nausea, hence general anesthesia is necessary for the surgery.