More on Nodules

More on Nodules

Nodules are similar to callouses that might form on the fingers of guitar-players. Deposits of tissue build up as a protection to the tender layers beneath. The primary cause is frequent, intense oppositional movement of the vocal folds against each other, such as yelling or using the voice too much and/or too vigorously. They can also be caused by smoking, alcohol or caffeine consumption, chronic cough or allergies. The vocal folds vibrate during the normal speaking range at approximately 200 beats per second for females and 100 beats per second for males. When the voice is being used gently, a healthy voice can usually withstand this frequency, and even much greater ones when singing. Flexible vocal folds will vibrate as lips do during a “lip buzz.”  However, when the voice is squeezed too tightly and the intensity is too strong, the cords become strained and injury is initiated. Sometimes it takes years for the full extent of damage to occur. The harm may be so gradual at first, that no change in the voice is noted. But as the callous builds up, the vocal cords become stiffer and cannot vibrate freely. This causes a tighter squeeze so that the voice can come through, becoming a vicious cycle of abuse. If you notice hoarseness that lasts longer than 2-3 weeks, be sure and visit a vocologist and an otolaryngologist who specializes in voice, to take a picture of your vocal cords and see what might be causing the problem. If you can catch nodules while they are still soft, there’s a chance of avoiding surgery and making changes to heal and prevent further growths from occurring.