Common vocal cord disorders include laryngitis, vocal polyps, vocal nodules, and vocal cord paralysis. Most disorders are caused by abuse or overuse of the voice, or by medical conditions such as asthma or GERD (gastroesophageal reflux disease). They can also be caused by a respiratory infection or a virus. Treatment can include letting the voice rest, speech therapy, and in some cases surgery.
Symptoms
- People who use their voices for work—like teachers, singers, and politicians—are at risk for vocal cord disorders. The main sign of a vocal cord disorder is sudden change in the voice. Symptoms can include:
- Voice has become raspy or hoarse
- Pitch of the voice has become deeper
- High notes are harder to hit when singing
- Throat feels raw, achy, or strained
- Talking has become more difficult or painful
- Need to cough or clear the throat a lot
- With vocal cord dysfunction, symptoms can include trouble breathing, especially breathing in. The throat can feel tight. Symptoms usually come and go.
Prevention
- You can help prevent vocal cord disorders if you:
- Drink plenty of water.
- Try not to speak much when your voice is hoarse or tired.
- Try not to scream or yell. Use a microphone when you need to speak or sing loudly.
- Quit smoking. Smoking causes your vocal cords to swell and makes your voice hoarse. It also puts you at risk for throat cancer.
- Use good breath support. Try to fill your lungs with air before starting to talk.
- Get voice therapy. A speech therapist can teach you how to use your voice in a healthy way.
