Can vocal cord nodules cause a sore throat?

Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
Updated on January 16, 2025
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Vocal cord nodules do not cause sore throats. The symptoms of vocal cord nodules mainly manifest as hoarseness. Some patients experience episodic hoarseness, while others have persistent hoarseness. Moreover, the symptoms of hoarseness become more noticeable after excessive voice use. Some patients may also have laryngitis, which could lead to throat pain. Therefore, upon detecting vocal cord nodules, it is necessary to visit an otolaryngology clinic. An examination using a laryngoscope and routine blood tests can be conducted to assess the severity of the condition. Most patients can consider conservative treatment with medications; commonly used treatments include oral traditional Chinese medicine, combined with nebulization, and concurrent vocal rehabilitation training. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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Written by Yao Jun
Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery
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How to treat vocal cord nodules

Vocal cord nodules, also known as singer's nodules, are typically located at the junction of the anterior and middle thirds of both vocal cords, featuring symmetrical nodular protrusions. They are more commonly found in individuals who use their voices professionally, such as singers, teachers, or other vocations that involve frequent shouting, as well as in children. Prolonged or improper use of the voice is a major cause of this condition. Therefore, during treatment, voice rest is primarily advised. Early stage vocal cord nodules can spontaneously resolve with sufficient vocal rest, and nodules in children often disappear naturally during puberty. Additionally, medication can be used for treatment, such as traditional Chinese medicines, including Jin Sang San Jie Wan and Kai Yin Pills. If conservative treatment fails, surgical removal of the vocal cord nodules under fiberoptic laryngoscopy can be performed, followed by a two-week voice rest period. Post-surgery, it is recommended to inhale medicated vapors, avoid spicy and irritating foods, drink plenty of water, avoid staying up late, and refrain from excessive voice use or shouting.

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Written by Zhang Jun
Otolaryngology
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What nebulization is used for vocal cord nodules?

Nebulized inhalation is very effective in treating vocal cord nodules. It requires the use of corticosteroids, as corticosteroids can reduce congestion and edema on the surface mucosa of the vocal cords, which is helpful for the recovery of vocal cord nodules. Vocal cord nodules are caused by improper or excessive use of the voice over a long period, loud and strenuous talking, and irritation from gastric acid reflux, leading to congestion, edema, and hyperplasia of the vocal cord surface mucosa. Patients may experience persistent hoarseness that progressively worsens. Vocal cord nodules are generally bilateral. Examination with a laryngoscope can reveal pale, granular neoplasms at the anterior-middle third of both vocal cords. Conservative treatment, such as nebulized inhalation, can be very effective initially. Voice rest, or refraining from speaking, is also necessary. If conservative treatment is ineffective, local surgical excision may be required for a cure.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Postoperative precautions for vocal cord nodules

After vocal cord nodule surgery, attention should be paid to the following aspects: The first is regular follow-ups. Generally speaking, after surgery, it is necessary to regularly check through indirect laryngoscopy and fiberoptic laryngoscopy. The main purpose is to observe the specific recovery situation, especially to check for any related surgical complications or recurrence. The second is the need for vocal rest, especially during the first week after surgery. Try to avoid talking as much as possible and do more deep breathing, because excessive use of the voice can affect the postoperative recovery and easily cause hoarseness. Moreover, it is necessary to check the pathology results. After vocal cord nodule surgery, a pathological biopsy is required. If the pathological slice is benign, regular follow-ups are generally sufficient. If the pathology shows other characteristics, or if it is malignant, further examinations and treatments might be necessary.

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Written by Li Rui
Otolaryngology
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Do vocal cord nodules require hospitalization?

Vocal cord nodules are a relatively common otolaryngological condition, generally not requiring hospitalization. Initially, it is recommended to visit an ENT outpatient clinic for a laryngoscopy to assess the severity of the condition. Treatment usually involves outpatient medication, commonly using nebulization therapy, in combination with oral traditional Chinese medicine and vocal rehabilitation training. With these treatments, the condition gradually improves. For a small portion of patients with severe vocal cord nodules and significant hoarseness, if conservative treatment does not relieve symptoms, hospitalization and surgery may be considered.

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Written by Deng Bang Yu
Otolaryngology
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Are vocal cord nodules prone to recurrence?

Vocal cord nodules are symmetrical nodular protuberances on the free edges of both vocal cords. Clinically, vocal cord nodules are mainly related to improper use of the voice and are prone to recurrence. Recurrence factors primarily involve inappropriate voice use, voice abuse, and other irritants such as tobacco, alcohol, chili peppers, and other spicy foods, as well as frequent recurring upper respiratory infections. Therefore, clinically, in addition to medication, such as drugs that clear the throat and benefit the voice, attention should also be paid to diet structure and normal voice use to avoid excessive voice abuse.