Voice Disorders

Whenever you speak, you push air through your vocal cords, which are two bands of muscles in your larynx. The vibrations of your vocal cords produce the sound of your voice. When this process is disrupted, a voice disorder may result.

Causes

• Screaming, talking too much, clearing your throat frequently and even smoking can damage your vocal cords. Cancerous growths, throat infections and acid reflux can also affect your voice.

Vocal Fold Nodes

• Nodes or nodules may develop if you abuse your voice. Soft nodes are similar to calluses; hard nodes are comparable to scars.

Vocal Fold Polyps

• Polyps can arise from a single trauma or injury to the vocal cords. They are fleshier than nodes and can result in chronic laryngitis.

Vocal Fold Granulomas

• Intubation, or insertion of a breathing tube, can result in granulomas, especially if your vocal cords are already compromised. Granulomas, or small areas of inflammation, are difficult to treat.

Treatment

• According to the University of North Carolina's School of Medicine, treatment depends on the disorder and may include speech therapy, voice rest, steroids, antibiotics and surgery.