What are Vocal Fold Nodules?
Vocal fold nodules develop due to trauma of the vocal folds. When you use your voice incorrectly over time, the vocal folds might become swollen. These swollen areas then become nodules that are sometimes called ‘soft nodules’ but as they progress they can be called ‘hard nodules’ and be harder to treat.
Vocal fold nodules are small, benign growths on the vocal cords caused by repetitive vocal strain or misuse. They often affect teachers, singers, actors, and anyone who relies heavily on their voice for work. Understanding causes, symptoms, and treatment options is essential for maintaining healthy vocal function.
What Are Vocal Fold Nodules?
Vocal fold nodules develop when the vocal folds are overused or misused, causing swelling that can become firm over time.
Soft nodules: Early-stage and easier to treat
Hard nodules: More persistent and harder to treat
Nodules usually form in pairs, directly opposite each other, but occasionally appear unilaterally with slight swelling on the opposite cord.
What Causes Vocal Fold Nodules?
The primary cause of nodules is vocal misuse or overuse, including:
Shouting or screaming
Singing incorrectly or excessively
Long periods of speaking or heavy vocal use
Professionals in voice-heavy jobs, such as teachers, singers, or actors, are particularly at risk. Chronic misuse can cause strain, discomfort, and even income-related stress if the voice is impacted.
Symptoms of Vocal Fold Nodules
Common symptoms include:
Hoarseness or breathy voice
Effortful speech with breaks
Lower pitch and vocal fatigue
Throat discomfort or soreness
Frequent throat clearing
Why this happens: Nodules create a gap between the vocal folds, allowing air to escape and causing a breathy or weak voice.
How Are Vocal Fold Nodules Diagnosed in the UK?
Diagnosis is usually made by an ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) consultant using endoscopy, a camera inserted through the nose to view the vocal folds. After the examination, your ENT will confirm the diagnosis and discuss the best treatment plan.
What are Treatment Options for Vocal Fold Nodules in the UK?
Voice Therapy is the first-line treatment, focusing on:
Retraining healthy vocal habits
Reducing strain and forceful voice use
Improving breath support and resonance
Surgery is rarely required and is considered only if therapy is ineffective. Post-surgery Voice Therapy is essential to prevent recurrence.
Online Voice Therapy is effective and convenient, allowing patients to receive treatment remotely.
Can vocal fold nodules go away without treatment?
In the acute stages, vocal nodules may resolve with voice rest alone. However, if it is due to repetitive vocal misuse, then Voice Therapy treatment will be required. Voice Therapy is first choice rather than surgery. If surgery is required, Voice Therapy following surgery to prevent reoccurrance is recommended. Online Voice Therapy for Voice is effective for treating nodules.
How long does it take to recover from vocal fold nodules?
Voice therapy takes between 6-8 sessions.
Can I still sing or talk professionally with nodules?
Singing or heavy voice use can worsen nodules. Early therapy focuses on safe vocal technique so you can resume professional voice use as soon as possible.
Is surgery always needed for vocal fold nodules?
No. Most nodules respond well to Voice Therapy. Surgery is reserved for nodules that don’t improve with therapy.
Can online Voice Therapy treat nodules?
Yes. Online Voice Therapy is effective as face to face therapy, allowing patients to learn healthy vocal techniques and practice exercises in the comfort of their own home, reducing travel time and cost.
How can I look after my voice?
Vocal hygiene is very important to look after your voice when you have vocal nodules.
Do you have a waiting list?
No - you can be seeing within one week of your consultation.
Why Choose The Speech Network?
Our UK-based private voice therapists are all Clinical Specialists in Voice, each with a minimum of 12 years’ experience. They currently work, or have previously worked, as Senior Voice Therapists within the NHS.
All our therapists are fully registered and accredited, including:
Health and Care Professionals Council (HCPC)
Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists (RCSLT)
Association of Speech and Language Therapists in Independent Practice (ASLTIP)
Members of the British Voice Association
Our private voice therapy team is highly rated, with outstanding 5-star Google reviews and recognition as a 2024 Quality Business Award winner.
Specialist Training & Accreditation
Myofascial Release manual therapy
Lee Silverman Voice Treatment (LSVT LOUD®)
Advanced Laryngeal Manipulation
Our UK based Private Voice Therapists are Clinical Specialists in Voice with a minimum of 15 years experience Specialising in Voice Therapy. Book a free 15 minute consultation or email us at thespeechnetwork@hotmail.com to enquire about our reasonable fees for Voice Therapy.