Polyps can form in the throat, though they are more accurately described as vocal cord or vocal fold polyps. These growths are typically non-cancerous masses that develop on the delicate tissues of the voice box, known as the larynx. A polyp is a common cause of a voice disorder, resulting from interference with the normal vibration required to produce sound. Understanding their location and triggers is the first step toward effective management and voice preservation.
Where Throat Polyps Form
These growths occur in the larynx, or voice box, situated at the top of the windpipe. The larynx contains the vocal folds, two bands of smooth muscle tissue covered by a thin layer of mucosa. Polyps form within the superficial layer of this mucosa, often at the midpoint of one vocal cord, which receives the most physical stress during voice use.
A polyp generally appears as a soft, fluid-filled, or blister-like bump. Unlike vocal nodules, which are callus-like and usually occur in pairs, polyps are frequently found on only one side of the vocal fold. They can range from a small, broad-based swelling to a larger, stalk-like growth. The presence of a polyp disrupts the smooth, wave-like motion of the vocal cord, leading to changes in voice quality.
Triggers for Polyp Development
The primary cause of vocal cord polyps is phonotrauma, defined as physical stress or injury to the vocal folds. Polyps often result from a single, acute vocal event, such as yelling, screaming, or a sudden, loud burst of vocal force. This acute trauma can rupture small blood vessels, causing bleeding and subsequent swelling within the vocal fold tissue.
Chronic irritation and vocal misuse also contribute to their formation. Long-term habits like excessive talking, speaking at an unnatural pitch, or constant throat clearing create ongoing stress on the vocal cords. External factors can inflame the area, including tobacco smoke, toxic fumes, and chronic conditions like allergies. Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD) or Laryngopharyngeal Reflux (LPR) allows stomach acid to irritate the laryngeal lining, making the vocal folds more susceptible to injury.
Common Indicators of Vocal Cord Polyps
The most common indicator of a vocal cord polyp is persistent hoarseness, medically termed dysphonia. This hoarseness results because the growth prevents the vocal cords from closing and vibrating normally, leading to a rough, gravelly, or raspy sound. The voice may also have a breathy or airy quality, as air escapes through the gap created by the polyp.
Individuals frequently experience vocal fatigue, where the voice tires easily or feels strained after minimal use. The effort required to speak increases, and singers may notice a reduced vocal range, particularly difficulty accessing higher notes. Another common sensation is the feeling of a lump in the throat, known as globus sensation, which often leads to frequent, unproductive throat clearing.
Medical Management and Recovery
Confirming the presence of a vocal cord polyp involves a comprehensive evaluation, typically performed by an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat specialist). Diagnosis relies on a specialized visual examination called a laryngoscopy, where a thin, flexible scope with a camera is used to examine the vocal folds.
The most detailed diagnostic test is videostroboscopy, which uses a flashing light synchronized with vocal cord vibration to create a slow-motion video. This allows the doctor to precisely assess the size, location, and effect of the polyp on the mucosal wave (the characteristic ripple of the vocal cord tissue). This assessment guides the selection of the treatment plan.
Treatment for vocal cord polyps follows two main pathways, starting with conservative, non-surgical approaches. Voice therapy, administered by a speech-language pathologist, is often the first line of treatment. It involves teaching techniques to reduce vocal strain and misuse, establishing healthy habits, minimizing irritation, and sometimes allowing smaller polyps to shrink. Management of underlying conditions, such as treating acid reflux or quitting smoking, is also part of the non-surgical plan.
If the polyp is large or does not respond to voice therapy, surgical removal is necessary, a procedure known as phonomicrosurgery. This delicate operation is performed under general anesthesia using a surgical microscope for precision. The surgeon uses micro-instruments to remove the polyp while carefully preserving the surrounding healthy tissue of the vocal fold to maintain voice quality.
A key technique is microflap resection, where the surgeon lifts a small flap of the vocal cord lining to remove the polyp’s fluid contents before laying the flap back down. Following surgery, mandatory vocal rest, often lasting several days, is required for healing. This is followed by continued voice therapy to rehabilitate the voice, prevent recurrence, and ensure the best long-term vocal outcome.