Do vocal cord nodules hurt?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on September 20, 2024
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Vocal cord nodules are symmetric, benign protrusions that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords. Clinically, the main symptoms of vocal cord nodules include a hoarse voice and fatigue after prolonged speaking, typically without any sensation of pain or causing any pain. Treatment primarily involves medication, voice therapy, and for some vocal cord nodules that appear after an acute upper respiratory infection, hormonal treatment may be required, or combined with some antibiotics. In summary, vocal cord nodules do not cause painful symptoms, and treatment focuses mainly on voice training and rest for the vocal cords.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord nodules hurt?

Vocal cord nodules are symmetric, benign protrusions that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords. Clinically, the main symptoms of vocal cord nodules include a hoarse voice and fatigue after prolonged speaking, typically without any sensation of pain or causing any pain. Treatment primarily involves medication, voice therapy, and for some vocal cord nodules that appear after an acute upper respiratory infection, hormonal treatment may be required, or combined with some antibiotics. In summary, vocal cord nodules do not cause painful symptoms, and treatment focuses mainly on voice training and rest for the vocal cords.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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How long does it usually take for vocal cord nodules to heal?

Vocal cord nodules are primarily caused by improper pronunciation or overuse of the voice, commonly seen in people who use their voices frequently. Treatment primarily involves vocal rest, which means speaking less and pronouncing correctly. The period of vocal rest usually needs to be relatively long. If the vocal cord nodules are larger, then an even longer period of vocal rest may be required, generally lasting from two to four weeks. Clinically, most cases require four weeks. The effects are generally better after resting for four weeks. During this period, treatment can be complemented with medications, such as nebulized inhalation, which can speed up recovery. The premise is to first undergo vocal rest followed by medication treatment, which generally takes about two to four weeks.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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How to effectively treat vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In terms of treatment, it initially requires a laryngoscopic examination to assess the severity of the condition. Generally, conservative treatment is considered, commonly involving oral traditional Chinese medicine and nebulization therapy. Alongside medication, it's important to avoid excessive use of the voice and to engage in vocal rehabilitation training. Most patients will see gradual improvement in symptoms of hoarseness through these conservative treatments, and nodules may also gradually diminish in some cases. If standardized conservative treatments are ineffective and the symptoms of hoarseness are particularly severe, a small number of patients may consider surgical intervention.

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Written by Xu Qing Tian
Otolaryngology
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Dietary precautions for vocal cord nodules

Vocal cord nodules, also known as singer's nodules, are most commonly seen in professions such as teachers, singers, and speakers. These professions generally involve extensive use of the voice, which can lead to the development of bilateral symmetrical nodules on the vocal cords, primarily causing the patient to have a hoarse voice and difficulty continuing with their work. Treatment generally requires surgery, although milder cases may be treated with medication. During and after the treatment, whether surgical or medicinal, attention must be paid to certain lifestyle and dietary practices. Dietary precautions mainly involve avoiding spicy and irritating foods, as well as reducing smoking and alcohol consumption. In terms of lifestyle, it is important to minimize voice use as much as possible within the first month after surgery to avoid further strain on the vocal cords.

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Written by Li Mao Cai
Otolaryngology
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What should be noted for vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules primarily require attention to speaking less and proper pronunciation as these measures address the causes of vocal cord nodules, which are due to excessive speaking and improper voicing. Therefore, these two factors need to be carefully considered. Additionally, in daily life, it's important to avoid environments with smoke and alcohol; do not smoke or inhale secondhand smoke. In terms of diet, consume light meals and avoid spicy and irritating foods. Emotionally, do not be hasty and especially avoid yelling, as there is a significant relationship between vocal cord nodules and emotional agitation or impatience.