The key difference between vocal nodule and polyp is that vocal nodule is a small callous-like growth that can occur on both vocal cords, while vocal polyp is a large blister to stalk-like growth that can occur on one or both vocal cords.
Vocal cords are also known as vocal folds. They are tissues in the throat that are key to creating the voice or vocalization. Vocal nodules and polyps are both benign and noncancerous lesions forming on vocal folds. These growths make the voice quality low, hoarse, or breathy. However, these are growths with different aetiologies. Most polyps are larger when compared to nodules.
CONTENTS
1. Overview and Key Difference
2. What is a Vocal Nodule
3. What is a Polyp
4. Similarities – Vocal Nodule and Polyp
5. Vocal Nodule vs. Polyp in Tabular Form
6. FAQ – Vocal Nodule and Polyp
7. Summary – Vocal Nodule vs. Polyp
What is a Vocal Nodule?
Vocal nodule is a small callous-like growth on vocal cords. It grows in pairs on the parts of the vocal cords that meet and vibrate when speaking and singing. Vocal nodules are more common in professional singers, children, teachers, trainers, and coaches. The symptoms of this condition may include hoarseness, breathlessness, vocal fatigue, loss of voice, loss of the vocal range, a voice that breaks easily, a harsh, raspy, or scratchy voice, frequent coughing, throat clearing or general fatigue, and general neck pain or a shooting pain that travels from ear to ear. Vocal nodule is caused by the chronic abuse of voice over time through straining, yelling, and frequent singing.
Vocal nodules can be diagnosed through laryngoscopy and stroboscopy. Furthermore, treatment options for vocal nodules may include practicing proper vocal hygiene, vocal therapy, and surgical intervention.
What is a Vocal Polyp?
Vocal polyp is a benign blister-like growth forming on one or both vocal cords. It is more common in men than women. It is due to acute or chronic overuse of the voice and smoking. Polyps can range in size. A vocal polyp is found on just one side of the vocal cord. The symptoms of this condition may include hearing two pitches at the same time, hearing a flutter in the voice, hoarseness in voice, decreased range of voice, inability to sing or to hold a pitch steady, decreased color or vibrancy of tone, throat discomfort, and neck pain.
Vocal polyps can be diagnosed through inspection with a mirror or viewing tube and biopsy. Furthermore, vocal poly can be treated through resting the voice, voice therapy, and surgery.
What are the Similarities Between Vocal Nodule and Polyp?
- Vocal nodules and polyps are both benign and noncancerous lesions on the vocal folds.
- Both may cause similar symptoms, such as hoarseness in the voice, neck pain, etc.
- They can be diagnosed through physical examination.
- They can be treated through surgical intervention.
What is the Difference Between Vocal Nodule and Polyp?
Vocal nodule is a small callous-like growth that can occur on both vocal cords, while vocal poly is a large blister-to-stalk-like growth that can occur on one or both vocal cords. Thus, this is the key difference between vocal nodule and polyp. Furthermore, a vocal nodule is more common in professional singers, children, teachers, trainers, and coaches. On the other hand, vocal polyp is more common in men than women.
The infographic below presents the differences between vocal nodule and polyp in tabular form for side-by-side comparison.
FAQ: Vocal Nodule and Polyp
How do you know if you have vocal polyps?
If you have symptoms like hearing two pitches at the same time, hearing a flutter in your voice, hoarseness in your speaking voice, hoarseness in your professional voice (singing, voiceover, etc), decreased range (no longer hitting higher notes easily) and inability to sing quietly, then you can know that you have vocal polyps.
Can vocal cord polyps be cured?
Vocal polyps can be cured by voice therapy, voice rest, etc.
What are vocal nodules called?
Vocal nodules are commonly referred to as “singer’s nodes” or “singer’s nodules.” They are callus-like growths that form in your vocal cords due to repeatedly misusing or overusing your voice.
Summary – Vocal Nodule vs. Polyp
Vocal nodules and polyps are benign and noncancerous lesions that can form on the vocal folds. Both affect vocalization and voice quality. Structurally, a vocal nodule is a small callous-like growth that can occur on both vocal cords. On the other hand, a vocal polyp is a large blister to stalk-like growth that can occur on one or both vocal cords. So, this summarizes the difference between vocal nodule and polyp.
Reference:
1. “Vocal Cord Nodules Causes, Symptoms and Treatment.” Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
2. “Vocal Polyp Symptoms & Treatment.” Los Angeles Voice Doctor.
Image Courtesy:
1. “Sore Throat – A woman hands touching her neck” By Marco Verch Professional Photography (CC BY 2.0 DEED) via Flickr