Vocal polyps and nodules are benign growths on the vocal cords that are the result of vocal abuse. When the voice is used excessively, at inappropriate pitches or at intense volumes, the vocal cords can become swollen from hitting each other. These swollen parts of the vocal cords can become calloused, forming either a polyp or a nodule.

    Although polyps and nodules are similar, they have a few subtle differences. While polyps typically occur on a single vocal fold, nodules tend to be bilateral. Furthermore, polyps are more likely to develop due to a single distressing vocal occurrence.

 

Diagnosis:

 

    A vocal polyp or nodule may cause uninterrupted hoarseness for weeks. After two or three weeks of this continued hoarseness, it is prudent to see a physician. This physician may be an ENT or a speech pathologist who will examine voice quality, pitch, amplitude, ability to maintain voicing and other vocal tests. An endoscopy allows the physician to see the vocal cords and this test will usually solidify a vocal polyp or nodules diagnosis.