By Dr. Balaji Ramamourthy
Consultant ENT, Head & Neck Surgery
Aram Advanced HealthCare, Pondicherry

Hoarseness of Voice That Doesn’t Go Away? You’re Not Alone

A clear voice is essential for daily communication and professional life. When hoarseness or voice change persists for weeks, it can be worrying. Two very common and treatable causes of long‑standing voice problems are vocal cord polyps and vocal cord nodules.

What Are Vocal Cord Polyps and Nodules?

Vocal Cord Nodules (Singer’s or Teacher’s Nodules)

Vocal cord nodules are small, benign swellings that usually develop on both vocal cords. They form due to repeated strain or misuse of the voice and are commonly seen in:

  • Teachers

  • Singers

  • Call center professionals

  • Vendors and public speakers

Nodules are similar to calluses that develop when the vocal cords are overworked.

Vocal Cord Polyps

Vocal cord polyps are larger, soft growths that usually affect one vocal cord. They may develop suddenly after forceful voice use or gradually due to irritation.

 

Common triggers include:

  • Loud or prolonged voice use

  • Smoking

  • Acid reflux

  • Chronic coughing or throat clearing

 

Both polyps and nodules affect the normal vibration of the vocal cords, leading to voice changes.

Common Symptoms of Vocal Cord Polyps and Nodules

You should consult an ENT specialist if you experience:

  • Hoarse or rough voice lasting more than 2–3 weeks

  • Voice fatigue while talking

  • Breathy or weak voice

  • Difficulty reaching high notes (especially in singers)

  • Throat discomfort while speaking

Early evaluation leads to faster recovery and better voice outcomes.

What Causes These Voice Problems?

The most common causes include:

  • Excessive or improper voice use

  • Speaking loudly for long hours

  • Smoking or tobacco exposure

  • Acid reflux reaching the throat (laryngopharyngeal reflux)

  • Repeated throat clearing

  • Untreated upper respiratory infections

 

How Are Vocal Cord Polyps and Nodules Diagnosed?

We perform laryngeal endoscopy, a quick procedure that allows direct visualization of the vocal cords.

When required, video laryngoscopy or stroboscopy is used to assess vocal cord movement and vibration, helping us decide the most appropriate treatment.

Treatment Options for Vocal Cord Polyps and Nodules

Voice Therapy (First‑Line Treatment)

  • Especially effective for vocal cord nodules

  • Conducted by trained speech and voice therapists

  • Teaches correct voice technique and vocal hygiene

 

Many patients experience significant improvement without surgery.

Medical Treatment

  • Management of acid reflux

  • Treatment of throat infections or inflammation

  • Advice on lifestyle changes such as smoking cessation

 

Microlaryngeal Surgery

If symptoms persist despite conservative treatment, microlaryngeal surgery may be advised. This is a precise, minimally invasive procedure performed under high magnification to remove the polyp or nodule while preserving normal vocal cord tissue.

Modern surgical microscopes and refined techniques are used to ensure safe surgery and excellent voice recovery.

 

Recovery and Voice Care After Treatment

Recovery depends on proper voice care, which includes:

  • Short‑term voice rest

  • Structured voice therapy

  • Avoiding strain, smoking, and reflux‑triggering foods

 

With good compliance, most patients regain a clear and strong voice.

When Should You See an ENT Specialist?

If hoarseness or voice change lasts more than two weeks, do not ignore it. Early consultation with an ENT specialist can prevent worsening and reduce the need for surgery.

Expert Voice Care at Aram Advanced HealthCare, Pondicherry

Aram Advanced HealthCare provides comprehensive evaluation and treatment for voice disorders, combining clinical expertise with advanced ENT technology.

Our focus is on ethical, safe, and compassionate care, helping patients return to their personal and professional lives with confidence.

Meta Description (SEO):

Persistent hoarseness? Learn about vocal cord polyps and nodules, their causes, symptoms, and modern treatment options from Dr. Balaji Ramamourthy, ENT specialist at Aram Advanced HealthCare, Pondicherry.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is the difference between a vocal cord polyp and a nodule?

Vocal cord nodules are usually small, firm swellings that occur on both vocal cords due to long-term voice overuse. Vocal cord polyps are softer, larger growths that typically occur on one vocal cord and may develop suddenly after voice strain or irritation.

2. Are vocal cord polyps and nodules cancerous?

No. Vocal cord polyps and nodules are benign (non-cancerous) conditions. However, persistent voice change should always be evaluated to rule out other serious causes.

3. Can vocal cord nodules heal without surgery?

Yes. Most vocal cord nodules respond very well to voice therapy, voice rest, and lifestyle changes.

4. When is surgery needed for vocal cord polyps?

Surgery may be recommended if the polyp does not improve with medical treatment and voice therapy, or if it is significantly affecting voice quality. Microlaryngeal surgery is a safe and effective option.

5. Is microlaryngeal surgery safe?

Yes. When performed by an experienced ENT surgeon, microlaryngeal surgery is a minimally invasive and precise procedure with excellent voice outcomes.

6. How long does voice recovery take after treatment?

Voice improvement may begin within weeks. Full recovery depends on the type of treatment, voice rest, and adherence to voice therapy. Most patients regain good voice quality with proper care.

7. When should I consult an ENT specialist for hoarseness?

If hoarseness or voice change lasts more than two weeks, it is advisable to consult an ENT specialist for evaluation.