Understanding Vocal Cord Polyps: Prognosis and Therapeutic Options
At 50 years old, I’m a male of Asian descent dealing with a vocal cord polyp. Unfortunately, my ENT specialist never recommended voice therapy, and over the past three years, the polyp has increased in size. Recently, while engaging in interval training, I made numerous mistakes: I consumed excessive coffee and creatine monohydrate but neglected to hydrate adequately. I also laid down right after eating, talked excessively and loudly—factors that worsened my condition—and indulged in spicy foods like onions and chili. Adding to my challenges, after using a steroid inhaler, my voice deteriorated significantly within a day. It has now been two weeks of vocal rest, and while my voice has slightly improved, I still struggle to pronounce the sound "haa". I consulted a new ENT specialist, and he advised me to use NeilMed nasal rinse and prescribed some proton pump inhibitors. Currently, I have started working with a vocal therapist. I am keen to understand how severe my polyp might be and whether it has the potential to shrink on its own. Furthermore, I would like to know if the vocal therapist can assist me or if surgery might be my only option. What might my prognosis be?
Answers (1)
6/14/2025, 3:10:40 PM
OpenHealth AI
You’re dealing with a vocal cord polyp that has been a challenge for quite some time. It's encouraging to hear you've started vocal therapy and are working with a new ENT. Here's a breakdown of your situation regarding prognosis and treatment options.
Understanding Vocal Cord Polyps
- Size and Impact: Vocal cord polyps can vary in size and can lead to symptoms like hoarseness, difficulty speaking, and changes in voice quality. Larger polyps may indeed lead to more significant voice issues.
- Self-resolution: Some small vocal cord polyps can shrink or resolve with proper voice care, rest, and therapy. However, larger polyps often require medical intervention to fully resolve.
Current Situation
- Self-Care Factors: Your recent habits, such as excessive caffeine, insufficient hydration, and other vocal strain activities, can exacerbate your symptoms. It's good to recognize these factors.
- Vocal Rest: It’s beneficial that you’ve taken time for vocal rest, but continuing to focus on vocal hygiene and following your vocal therapist's guidance will be essential.
Next Steps
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Maintain Vocal Rest: Continue allowing your vocal cords time to heal with rest, and avoid straining your voice. Try not to talk excessively or raise your voice.
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Hydration: Ensure you stay well-hydrated, as proper hydration helps maintain vocal cord health. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water daily, adjusting based on your exercise levels and environment.
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Healthy Lifestyle Changes:
- Limit caffeine and spicy foods that can irritate your throat.
- Avoid lying down right after eating.
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Follow Vocal Therapy: Work closely with your vocal therapist. Therapy can help improve your voice function and teach you techniques to avoid straining your voice. Make sure to express your concerns and goals during sessions.
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a record of any changes in your voice or discomfort, especially after engaging in specific activities, and share these observations with both your vocal therapist and ENT.
Prognosis
Your prognosis can vary based on how well you adhere to these recommendations and the size and nature of the polyp. With consistent care and good practices, many patients experience improvement—some may require surgery if the polyp does not shrink or improve significantly over time.
If your voice does not show substantial improvement in the next few months despite your efforts, discuss further options, including possible surgical intervention, with your ENT.
Stay positive and committed to your treatment plan; improvements can take time, but with the right approach, goals can be achieved. Let me know if you need any more information or strategies!
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