Ascent Ear Nose & Throat
Benign Vocal Cord (Voice Box) Growths or Lesions Specialist
Understanding your symptoms and knowing when to seek medical treatment is crucial, as early diagnosis and management can reduce the complications of benign vocal cord growths.
Comprehensive Services
Providing the highest standard of ENT care in Singapore and the region.
Accredited Specialists
Senior ENT surgeons with internationally-recognised fellowship training.
Convenient Locations
4 Clinics conveniently located in Orchard, Napier Road, Thomson, and Joo Chiat.
Common Symptoms of Benign Vocal Cord Growths
-
Changes in vocal quality such as hoarseness or raspiness
-
Vocal fatigue
-
Voice breaks
-
Reduced singing range
-
A feeling of a lump in the throat
-
Neck pain
-
Persistent coughing
What Are Benign Vocal Cord Growths?
Benign vocal cord (voice box) growths or lesions are noncancerous lumps or nodules that grow on your vocal cords. These growths develop as a result of overusing or straining of your voice, or it may also be a sign of an underlying medical issue.
Complications of Benign Vocal Cord Growths
-
Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
-
Trouble concentrating
-
Fatigue
-
Stress
-
Memory problems
-
Anxiety and depression
Common Causes of Benign Vocal Cord Growths
-
Vocal strain and overuse
-
Excessive smoking
-
Regular alcohol use
-
Sinusitis
-
Acid reflux
-
Allergies
-
Side effects from medication
-
Hypothyroidism
For Singaporeans & Singapore Permanent Residents
Insurance & Medisave Partners
Certain ENT procedures are claimable under Medisave, and the exact amount would depend on the procedure. For more information, please speak to our friendly clinic staff about using your insurance plan, Integrated Shield Plan, or Medisave.
Diagnosis of Benign Vocal Cord Growths
Physical examination
Your doctor will examine your head and neck and check for symptoms such as voice hoarseness or coughing. A review of your medical and family history may also be conducted.
Laryngoscopy with stroboscopy
This is an examination of your larynx (voice box) and throat using a laryngoscope (a thin, flexible telescope) combined with a synchronised strobe light.
Biopsy
A small piece of the growth tissues may be removed to test if they are cancerous.
Upon receiving a diagnosis, we will guide you through the several treatment options we offer and propose a treatment plan specific to your condition.
Treatment Options for Benign Vocal Cord Growths
Treatment for benign vocal cord growths and lesions typically involves restoring vocal function and relieving symptoms.
Some of the treatment options may include:
- Vocal rest
- Voice therapy under the guidance of a speech-language pathologist to teach you how to use your voice safely and prevent overuse
- Treatment of underlying medical conditions such as acid reflux, sinusitis and thyroid problems
- Surgery (endolaryngeal microsurgery or phonomicrosurgery)
visit us today
Photo Gallery
Our Main Clinic
Feel free to drop by our clinic and meet our specialist
-
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre 3 Mount Elizabeth #09-03, Singapore 228510
-
-
Other Practice Locations
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
-
3 Mount Elizabeth #09-05 Singapore 228510
-
-
Parkway East Medical Centre
-
319 Joo Chiat Place #03-02 Singapore 427989
-
-
Mount Alvernia Medical Centre D
-
820 Thomson Road #08-63 Singapore 574623
-
-
Frequently Asked Questions
Are benign vocal cord growths serious? When should I visit a doctor?
While benign vocal cord growths are typically noncancerous and will heal on their own with adequate rest, they should still be properly taken care of. In some cases, these growths may indicate a more severe underlying medical condition that requires proper treatment.
You should seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms persist for an extended period of time or if they impede your daily functions to a great extent.
How to prevent benign vocal cord growths?
- Quit or reduce smoking
- Relieve stress by engaging in yoga, deep breathing techniques or meditation
- Rest your vocal cords
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids
- Have adequate sleep
