From hoarseness to vocal fatigue, there are several vocal cord issues everyone should be aware of. Usually, hoarseness during a cold or after a concert is nothing to be concerned about. But when symptoms persist, or if it’s painful, you might need to have it checked out. 

What Causes Vocal Cord Issues?

While most vocal cord issues stem from overusing your voice or being sick, it can also be a sign of a polyp or a cyst. These small growths in your vocal cords affect their ability to vibrate correctly.

Singers and other people who use their voices a lot, like call center workers, can experience what’s known as vocal fatigue. Excessive use without proper rest can result in tissue damage.

What Are the Signs?

In the case of a polyp or cyst, individuals will experience hoarseness and other voice changes. A clear indicator that the vocal changes aren’t caused by everyday things like yelling is if the hoarseness persists longer than two weeks. At that point, it’s wise to seek medical treatment. Other factors like smoking, stress, and pollution can cause them as well.

The main sign of an overuse injury is when a person loses their voice after using it a lot throughout the day. There is usually no cause for concern if it happens once or twice. But when it happens repeatedly, you run the risk of damaging the tissues inside your vocal cords.

How Can You Prevent Them?

Luckily, preventing most vocal cord issues is well within your control. For instance, voice coaches recommend that for every 60 minutes of using your voice, you should give it 10 minutes of rest. Following that regimen will effectively stop overuse injuries in their tracks.

To prevent polyps and cysts, individuals may consider making such behavioral changes as decreasing how much they smoke and reducing the amount of stress they carry. Voice therapy is another excellent preventative measure one can take. 

The coach teaches the individual specific techniques and strategies to use their voice differently. Doing so has helped many people prevent and recover from a host of vocal cord issues.

Are you experiencing issues with your vocal cords? The medical professionals at Peninsula Ear Nose & Throat Clinic can help. For over 30 years, Kenai, AK, residents have trusted them to fix all of their ear, nose, and throat conditions. Their comprehensive assessments and safe, effective surgical procedures distinguish them as world-class in their field. Call (907) 283-5400 to set up an appointment, or visit their website for a complete list of their services.