Singers may have problems with vocal cord scarring because of excessive use.
Vocal cords, also known as vocal folds, stretch across the larynx. They vibrate to produce speech sounds and singing, open when a person inhales and close when she holds her breath. Vocal cord scarring may result from growths on the vocal cords, surgery, aging or other health issues.
Symptoms
Symptoms of a vocal cord scar can involve hoarseness when speaking, problems speaking or producing sound, and tightness or soreness of the neck muscles. Scarring normally does not cause problems with breathing or swallowing, but this depends on the underlying condition causing the scarring.
Causes of Vocal Cord Scarring
Scarring on the vocal cords may be caused by cysts, polyps or other growths on the mucous membrane of the vocal cord or other mucosa. The mucosa is significant in the function of the voice and may cause a blockage in the mucous gland, which causes the vocal cords to become irritated. Scarring also may be caused as a result from aging and other health issues. It is also common after surgeries on the cervical spine and removal of cancerous tumors.
Evaluation and Diagnosis
A physician can usually determine whether or not there is a vocal cord scar by using an endoscope. This helps find any swelling, redness, enlarged blood vessels or change in coloring. Often, a physician may conduct a voice evaluation to determine an underlying illness and then refer the patient to a laryngologist, who is a specialist in voice disorders and has a knowledge of ear, nose and throat issues.
Treatment
Treatment of vocal cord scarring may involve surgery, giving the vocal cords rest by not speaking or singing, or medication. The treatment method depends heavily on the cause and severity of the scarring.
Tags: vocal cords, vocal cord, aging other, aging other health, cord scar, Cord Scarring