LARYNGEAL POLYPS

SYMPTOMS

The symptoms of laryngeal polyps may include:

• Hoarseness or Raspy Voice: Changes in voice quality, including hoarseness, roughness, or a strained vocal quality, are common symptoms of laryngeal polyps.
• Breathy or Weak Voice: Difficulty projecting the voice or producing clear, resonant speech due to vocal cord dysfunction.
• Voice Fatigue: Vocal fatigue or discomfort after prolonged speaking or singing.
• Throat Pain or Discomfort: Mild to moderate throat pain, discomfort, or a sensation of a lump in the throat may occur, particularly with larger or more symptomatic polyps.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing laryngeal polyps involves a combination of clinical evaluation, laryngoscopy, and imaging studies. Diagnostic steps may include:

• Laryngoscopy: Direct visualization of the larynx and vocal cords using a laryngoscope to identify the presence, location, and characteristics of laryngeal polyps.
• Stroboscopy: Specialized imaging technique used to assess vocal cord vibration and function, providing detailed information about vocal cord lesions such as polyps.
• Imaging Studies: In some cases, imaging modalities such as computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to assess the extent of polyp involvement or rule out other underlying conditions.

TREATMENT

Treatment of laryngeal polyps aims to alleviate symptoms, restore vocal cord function, and prevent recurrence. Treatment options may include:

• Voice Rest: Temporary restriction of voice use to allow vocal cord inflammation to resolve and polyp size to decrease.
• Speech Therapy: Rehabilitation exercises and vocal hygiene techniques to improve vocal cord function, reduce vocal strain, and prevent recurrence of polyps.
• Surgical Removal: Endoscopic or microsurgical excision of laryngeal polyps may be necessary for larger or symptomatic lesions that do not respond to conservative measures.
• Medical Therapy: In some cases, medications such as corticosteroids or antireflux agents may be prescribed to reduce inflammation, control symptoms of GERD, and prevent recurrence of polyps.