Vocal nodules are small, benign (not cancerous) bumps on the edges of both vocal folds (also called vocal cords). They are soft when they first start growing and can become harder like a callus over time.
What causes vocal nodules?
Vocal nodules are usually caused by over-using the vocal folds or using them with too much force.
Vocal nodules often develop when you:
- talk loudly, especially in noisy places
- clear your throat or cough a lot
- talk or sing a lot most days
- shout and scream
- regularly do sound effects, like car or monster noises
Allergies, colds, infectious laryngitis, and using tobacco, alcohol, and drugs can make vocal nodules worse.
Effects on voice
Vocal nodules can change how your voice sounds because they affect how your vocal folds work.
Vocal nodules stop your vocal folds from closing all the way, so air leaks out when you speak. This can make your voice sound breathy or quieter than usual.
Vocal nodules also make the vocal folds a bit thicker and stiffer, so it’s harder for them to vibrate smoothly. This can make your voice sound hoarse, husky, or deeper than usual.
Continuing to use your voice often and forcefully can make things worse.
You might try to talk louder, which takes more effort and puts extra strain on your vocal folds. Or you might also tighten your throat, neck, or jaw, making your voice sound more tense or tired.
Over time, this extra effort and tension can irritate your voice and slow your healing.
Treatment
Voice therapy
Once it’s confirmed that you have vocal nodules, the preferred treatment for vocal nodules is voice therapy. Nodules formed from poor voice habits can often become smaller and go away over time if you change the way you use your voice.
A speech-language pathologist can help you learn:
- how your vocal folds were hurt
- how to avoid the things that caused your nodules or made them worse
- everyday habits that are good for your voice
- how to use your breath to make your speech louder
- how to use the correct voice pitch and loudness
- voice exercises to do at home and how to apply them when you talk
- when to use a microphone or voice amplifier
It takes time, home practice, and motivation to form new habits and make permanent changes in your voice.
Surgery
Surgery is typically considered a last treatment for vocal nodules, and it is rarely considered for children. Vocal nodules may come back if you don’t change the voice habits that caused them.
Voice therapy is still recommended before and after surgery.
Where to get help
If you have concerns about your voice, visit your healthcare provider.
Speech-language pathologists and audiologists can help with speech, language, and hearing concerns. Ask your healthcare provider or visit Adult Community Rehabilitation or Pediatric Rehabilitation to learn more.
