Vocal Cord Nodules

Also known as: calluses of the vocal fold, vocal cord lesions.

What are vocal cord nodules?

Vocal cord nodules are calluses of the vocal cords. They typically occur from overuse or misuse of the voice.  They can cause problems with voice quality.

What causes vocal cord nodules?

Vocal overuse or misuse can result in the formation of vocal cord nodules. The nodules typically occur after prolonged periods of yelling or screaming, straining the voice or improperly using the voice when singing.

What are the symptoms of vocal cord nodules?

The symptoms associated with vocal cord nodules include a raspy or hoarse voice, breaks in the voice, loss of the voice and/or frequent throat clearing.

What are vocal cord nodule care options?

The majority of cases resolve when the vocal overuse and misuse that is causing the nodules is stopped.  Some patients benefit from speech therapy. In children, surgery is only occasionally recommended and reserved for severe refractory cases.


Reviewed by: Sandeep P Dave, M.D.

This page was last updated on: October 03, 2019 04:30 PM