Vocal Cord Edema: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

VOCAL CORDS EDEMA

THEvocal cord edema It results in inflammation of the vocal cords: it usually affects both, especially women, but it can also affect just one cord, making it more swollen than the other. Remember that the vocal cords are the two layers of tissue located at the level of the larynx that allow us to speak, sing, and whisper. Obviously, vocal cord swelling particularly affects those who use their voice frequently, even for professional reasons.

CAUSES

Among the most common causes of vocal cord swelling are:

• A sudden and excessive strain on the vocal cords. This can include speaking too loudly or shouting.
• Il smoke
• Il pharyngolaryngeal reflux
• Incorrect use of the diaphragm when speaking
• Il gastroesophageal reflux
• Water retention
• The stress

SYMPTOMS

When swelling of the vocal cords occurs, the voice becomes dirty: it becomes hoarse, with a dull and breathy timbre. And there is an increasing tendency to to struggle to speak, triggering a vicious cycle of chain reactions. This additional strain can lead to further damage to the vocal cords, worsening the swelling and intensifying the difficulty in speaking. Symptoms may also include a itching sensation or foreign body in the throat, difficulty swallowing and, in some cases, neck or throat pain.

DIAGNOSIS

The first step for the diagnosis, in the presence of the symptoms indicated, is a thorough visit to the specialist, theotolaryngologistHe will decide the next steps and the necessary checks, if necessary.

During the visit, the ENT specialist will begin with a detailed medical history and a physical examination of the head and neck area. A crucial step in the diagnosis is the laryngoscopy, an exam that allows direct observation of the vocal cords and evaluation of the presence of edema, inflammation or other structural abnormalities.

This test can be performed using flexible or rigid optical fibers, and is often integrated with advanced technologies such as Narrow Band Imaging (NBI), which improves visualization of the vascularization of the mucosa and helps in the early diagnosis of any new formations.

In some cases, a laryngostroboscopy, a test that uses a stroboscopic light to analyze the vibratory movement of the vocal cords during phonation, or alaryngeal electromyography to measure the electrical activity of the laryngeal muscles.

If the vocal cord swelling is suspected to be caused by gastroesophageal reflux, your doctor may recommend further tests, such as a Esophageal pH-metry, to assess the presence and severity of reflux.

THERAPY

The management and treatment of vocal cord edema requires a multidisciplinary approach that often involves medical therapies, speech therapy and, in the most serious cases, surgicalHere's an overview:

VOCAL REST

The first step in treating vocal cord edema is usually vocal rest, to avoid further strain and damage to the vocal cords. It is recommended to avoid talking as much as possible, including whispering, and avoid smoking and alcohol, which can worsen inflammation.

MEDICAL THERAPY

If the specialist deems it appropriate, they may be prescribed antiinflammatory e corticosteroidsThese drugs reduce inflammation and swelling. Corticosteroids are particularly useful in cases where the swelling is significant and causes breathing or vocal difficulties.

In addition, they may be recommended reflux medications. If, in fact, it is discovered that the edema is associated with gastroesophageal reflux, antacid drugs or proton pump inhibitors to reduce gastric acidity and protect the mucous membranes.

SPEECH THERAPY

La speech therapy It is essential for teaching patients proper and less traumatic use of their voice. This type of therapy is particularly effective for those who have developed edema due to incorrect or excessive use of the voice, such as teachers, singers, or call center operators. Speech therapy can also be useful in post-surgical rehabilitation to restore proper vocal function.

SURGICAL INTERVENTIONS

In more severe cases, where the edema is persistent or associated with lesions such as polyps or nodules, surgery may be necessary. laryngeal surgery can be performed with modern techniques such as laser CO2, which allows for precise and minimally invasive treatment of the vocal cords.

PREVENTION

To prevent vocal cord swelling, especially for people who put a lot of stress on their voice, a few essential things are important. For example:

• Avoid eating very hot foods or drinking hot drinks.
• Use lemon and honey frequently to lubricate the vocal cords well
• Treating gastroesophageal reflux
• Stop smoking
• Don't strain your voice when it starts to get low.
• Speak in a low tone of voice
• Reduce or avoid consuming alcohol
• Minimize exposure to irritants
• Keep your body well hydrated.

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