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Am I at risk for vocal cord lesions?
Vocal cord nodules or polyps are often the result of long-term wear on a person’s vocal cords. People with the highest risk for vocal cord lesions are those with careers or hobbies that require excessive use of their voice, such as singers, teachers, actors, preachers, and salespeople. However, polyps can also form after one case of vocal abuse, like cheering at a sporting event or yelling at a concert. Smoking, thyroid problems, and acid reflux can also put someone at risk for developing vocal cord lesions. Sometimes resting your vocal cords for a few days is enough to let your body heal, but severe cases of nodules or polyps demand professional care. Call your ENT doctor if you lose your voice for more than a couple of days or are hoarse for more than two weeks. You should also seek professional help if you suffer from hoarseness and have difficulty swallowing, suffer from pain, feel a lump in your throat, or start coughing up blood. It can be alarming to suddenly be unable to speak or sing without experiencing pain, but treating vocal cord lesions is usually a simple matter. If you think you may be suffering from vocal cord nodules or polyps, give Dr. Seth Evans a call at 512.550.0321. Schedule a consultation today to determine the severity of your condition and learn about your treatment options. When should I see a doctor?
NOT PITCH-PERFECT
Are Vocal Cord Lesions Throwing You Off-Key?
From a baby’s laugh to a Broadway star belting out a show-stopping number, the human voice is capable of creating an amazing array of sounds. Each time we speak, sing, or cry, our lungs, voice box, nose, throat, mouth, and sinuses must all work together to make the sound possible. It’s a complex system, so it’s no surprise that the smallest abnormalities on our vocal cords can cause some serious problems.
Nodules and Polyps
The most common vocal cord lesions are nodules and polyps. Nodules are like calluses: hardened growths that form in pairs on each vocal cord. Polyps are like blisters: swollen, irritated sores that usually appear alone. Both kinds can be very painful and can cause lasting damage to your voice and throat if left untreated.
LAUGH! HAVE A
Spiced Pumpkin Seed Crunch This recipe combines pumpkin seeds, a seasonal favorite, with cashews, sunflower seeds, and spices. It’s a perfect homemade snack for the fall.
Inspired by Bon Appétit magazine
Ingredients
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1/4 cup shelled pumpkin seeds 1/4 cup shelled sunflower seeds
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1 large egg white
1 teaspoon light agave syrup
1/4 cup raw cashews, coarsely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garam masala or curry powder
1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper Nonstick vegetable oil spray
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1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Directions
4. Using a slotted spoon, strain spoonfuls of mixture over bowl and transfer to baking sheet. Discard excess egg white mixture. 5. Bake 20–25 minutes, tossing once. 6. Let cool and serve.
1. Heat oven to 300 F. 2. Coat a baking sheet with cooking spray. 3. In a mixing bowl, whisk together egg white, agave, salt, and spices. Add nuts and seeds and toss until evenly coated.
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