How long do vocal cord polyps need voice rest?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on May 20, 2025
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Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological condition with various clinical symptoms, the most common being hoarseness. If the vocal cord polyps are significant, it is necessary to rest the voice, typically recommended for about one to two weeks. However, it is still essential to speak as little as possible in daily life because excessive use of the voice can potentially worsen the condition of the vocal cord polyps. If the polyps are large, and resting the voice alone does not yield good results, additional treatments such as oral medications and nebulizer therapy may be needed. Some patients may not respond well to conservative treatment and might require surgical removal. After surgery, regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor the outcomes.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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What should not be eaten with vocal cord polyps?

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological ailment. In terms of diet, it is advised not to consume spicy and irritating foods such as chili peppers, Sichuan pepper, and black pepper, as well as foods that are likely to cause allergies. These foods can directly irritate the throat and vocal cords, potentially exacerbating symptoms such as hoarseness and possibly causing throat pain and a sensation of a foreign object in the throat. Patients with vocal cord polyps should visit an otolaryngology clinic after symptoms appear. Routine blood tests and laryngoscopy can help determine the specific cause and extent of the condition, which then facilitates targeted treatment.

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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 Rui
Otolaryngology
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Postoperative care for vocal cord polyps surgery

Vocal cord polyps are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In terms of treatment, conservative treatment is considered if the polyp is small. However, if the polyp is large and conservative treatment is ineffective, surgical treatment may be necessary. Currently, the main procedure is microlaryngoscopic vocal cord polyp removal surgery, which is a common minimally invasive surgical method. Post-surgery, it is generally recommended to have regular follow-ups, ideally weekly, to monitor recovery. Additionally, nebulizer treatment is advised as an auxiliary therapy to aid post-surgical recovery. After surgery, it is also important to minimize speaking and avoid overusing the voice.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Will vocal cord polyps recur after they are removed?

Vocal cord polyps are polyp-like benign neoplasms that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords. Vocal cord polyps generally require surgical treatment, as medication typically cannot eliminate the polyps. Post-surgery, there is a certain recurrence rate for vocal cord polyps. The recurrence of vocal cord polyps is often related to factors such as excessive voice use, gastroesophageal reflux, or frequent upper respiratory tract infections. Therefore, after surgery for vocal cord polyps, it is important to avoid these factors to prevent recurrence of the polyps.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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How to take care of vocal cord polyps in daily life?

Vocal cord polyps are primarily caused by improper voice use, shouting loudly, and excessive fatigue, leading to vocal cord lesions. They cause persistent hoarseness in patients and progressively worsen. Vocal cord polyps generally occur on one side. If a patient experiences persistent hoarseness, they should first visit a hospital for an examination using a laryngoscope. In the anterior-middle third of one vocal cord, a pale white or pale red, smooth-surfaced abnormal neoplasm will be found. This causes incomplete closure of the vocal cords and results in hoarseness. For treatment, vocal cord polyps require the removal through endoscopic support with a laryngoscope. Surgery requires hospitalization, and complete vocal rest for a week post-surgery, along with speaking softly and eating a bland diet, can gradually improve the condition and prevent recurrent episodes.