Vocal Cords

Text Box: The Vocal Cords are two bands of smooth muscle tissue located in the voice box. The sound of your voice is produced by your vocal cords vibrating with air that passes through them from the lungs. Problems with the vocal cords can present in several ways: Laryngitis is an inflammation of the vocal cords. It can be caused by excessive use of the voice, infections, inhaled irritants, or acid reflux. Nodules are non-cancerous growths on the vocal cords caused by vocal abuse and are a common problem for professional singers. Usually found in pairs, one on each cord, nodules are small, callous-like lumps. When present, nodules can make your voice sound hoarse, low and breathy. Polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths, similar to a blister. They usually grow alone on one cord and are often caused by long-term cigarette smoking, hypothyroidism, acid reflux, and continuous voice misuse. Like nodules, polyps cause the voice to be hoarse, low and breathy. Paralysis caused from trauma, prior surgery or cancer. Paralyzed vocal cords are when one, or both, cords are not opening or closing properly and can range in severity from mild to life threatening. Difficulty swallowing and coughing are common symptoms. An endoscope may be used to look down the throat, directly at the vocal cords. Unknown reasons such as a viral infection. Hoarseness persisting beyond 1 month deserves attention to be certain it is not from a serious cause and so that early treatment can be instituted. Disorders caused by abuse or misuse are easily preventable and most can be reversed. The following factors are taken into consideration when determining treatment: Patient’s age, overall health and medical history Extent and type of disorder Patient tolerance for medications, procedures or therapies Treatment may include: Eliminating the behavior that cause the disorder Referral to speech-language pathologist to treat voice, speech, language or swallowing disorders. Medication Surgery to remove growths

Vocal Cords

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