Vocal Nodules in Children Treatment
The vocal cords are a pair of fibrous sheets of tissue that span the cavity of the larynx and produce sounds by vibrating. Vocal cord nodules in children are often a result of vocal cord strain. It is characterized by a small fibrous or inflammatory growth. They can either be localized, or in worse cases, it can affect the whole length of the vocal cords. Vocal cord nodules in children are growths in the epithelium and results to hoarse and breathy voice.
Symptoms of Vocal Cord Nodules in Children
- Decreased pitch range
- Feeling a lump in the throat
- Hoarse voice
- Neck pain
How to Prevent Vocal Nodules in Children:
- Avoid loud talking and screaming to avoid straining the vocal cords.
- Release neck tension: This is done while the shoulders are down, tip the head to each side then forward.
- Properly using the voice: As much as possible, avoid talking in a loud voice. This eliminates strain.
- Speak in a normal range: This way the vocal cords are not strained and formation of vocal nodules in children is prevented.
Treating Vocal Nodules in Children:
- Medical treatment: This is done when there are underlying illnesses that may have brought about the vocal nodules. Illnesses like thyroid problems and gastroesophageal reflux disease are among these problems.
- Surgical treatment: This is performed by surgically removing the nodule from the polyp.This is usually done in chronic cases and is rarely performed in children.
- Behavioral treatment: Smoke cessation and stress control are examples of this.
Therapy for Vocal Nodules in Children
- Voice therapy
- Breathe support for good voicing
- Good vocal hygiene
- Stopping vocal abusive behaviors
- Direct voice treatment to alter loudness and pitch
Diagnosis of Vocal Nodules in Children
- Neurological examination
- Voice examination by an otolaryngologist
- Voice evaluation by a speech-language pathologist