Can vocal cord nodules be treated with acupuncture?

Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
Updated on January 31, 2025
00:00
00:00

Vocal cord nodules are bilateral symmetrical benign protrusions that occur on the free edge of the vocal cords, and these protrusions are very small. Clinically, treatment is mainly through medication and primarily through vocal rest, which means speaking less. Thus, vocal cord nodules generally do not require treatment with acupuncture, as acupuncture does not have a significant effect on vocal cord nodules. However, if the vocal cord nodules are accompanied by other factors, the acupuncture treatment is for those other factors and not an indication for the vocal cord nodules. In summary, vocal cord nodules do not need acupuncture treatment, and acupuncture does not have much effect on vocal cord nodules.

Other Voices

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
54sec home-news-image

What department should I go to for vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules are a common and frequently occurring disease in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, so it is advisable to first visit the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery department when seeking medical treatment.In some hospitals, there are specialized departments such as the laryngology department or a sub-discipline specifically for laryngology, where one can opt to see a throat specialist or a laryngologist.Additionally, in some hospitals where the departments are not specifically divided, the ophthalmology and otolaryngology departments are combined and referred to as the department of otorhinolaryngology, so one can also visit this department.Vocal cord nodules are a common disease in otolaryngology-head and neck surgery, therefore, one should primarily consult the otolaryngology-head and neck surgery department.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
50sec home-news-image

Can vocal cord nodules be treated without surgery?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition. In treatment, most patients may not require surgery. Generally, it is recommended to first visit an otolaryngologist for a laryngoscopic examination to assess the severity of the vocal cord nodules. If the nodules are small and the symptoms of hoarseness are not particularly severe, treatment usually involves conservative medication, commonly oral medications and nebulization therapy. In addition, voice rehabilitation training can be conducted. Many patients experience gradual improvement in voice hoarseness and reduction of the vocal cord nodules through this treatment. Some patients may even see the nodules disappear, but regular follow-up visits are necessary as there is a possibility of recurrence.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
52sec home-news-image

Can vocal cord nodules heal by themselves?

Vocal cord nodules, also known as singer's nodules, typically involve symmetrical nodular protrusions at the junction of the anterior and middle thirds of both vocal cords. This condition is commonly seen in individuals who use their voices professionally or excessively, such as actors, teachers, individuals in vocations that require shouting, and children. The primary cause of this condition is attributed to long-term excessive or improper use of the voice. Early stage vocal cord nodules can disappear by allowing the vocal cords to rest sufficiently through voice rest; in children, vocal cord nodules might disappear after puberty. If these nodules do not resolve with conservative treatment and voice rest, medical treatment or surgery may be necessary.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
42sec home-news-image

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.

doctor image
home-news-image
Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
45sec home-news-image

Can I smoke with vocal cord nodules?

Patients with vocal cord nodules are advised not to smoke, as cigarettes have a relatively strong irritant effect and directly stimulate the vocal cords. This may exacerbate the condition of vocal cord nodules and may also cause further hoarseness. Moreover, smokers are at a higher risk of developing cancerous changes in the vocal cords. Therefore, patients should not smoke or drink alcohol and should regularly visit an otolaryngologist for a laryngoscopy to monitor the changes in the vocal cord nodules. Most patients can achieve good control and relief of their condition through timely medication treatment and nebulization, with only a small number needing to consider surgical treatment.