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Vocal nodules are benign (noncancerous) growths that form on the vocal cords. Over time, these growths become hard and thick, similar to calluses that can form on the hands. Vocal nodules can result in a person’s voice sounding hoarse, breathy, and lower in pitch. Vocal abuse may cause vocal nodules and continuing vocal abuse may exacerbate the growths over time. Some examples of vocal abuse that may result in vocal nodules include allergies, smoking, tense muscles, singing, coaching, cheerleading, talking loudly, drinking caffeine and drinking alcohol. The consumption of caffeine and alcohol dehydrates the throat and vocal cords.

Some signs and symptoms of vocal nodules include:

• Hoarseness
• Breathiness
• A “rough” voice
• A “scratchy” voice
• Harshness
• Neck pain
• Voice and body fatigue
• Decreased pitch range
• A “lump in the throat” sensation
• A shooting pain from ear to ear

Some professionals that will assess the voice include an Otolaryngologist (ear-nose-throat doctor), and a Speech Language Pathologist. Some treatment of vocal nodules may include teaching good vocal hygiene (e.g.,hydration), reducing/stopping vocally abusive behaviors, voice treatments to change pitch, loudness or breath support for optimal voicing, and techniques and exercises to target stress reduction.

-Babita B.