Ad:

Laryngeal polyps - is surgery a last resort?

You can read this text in 2 min.

Laryngeal polyps - is surgery a last resort?

ojoimages

Singing

Polyps are soft nodules that grow from mucosa altered by inflammation. Laryngeal polyps are most commonly located on the vocal cords. What are the causes of polyps? Is surgery a last resort?

Ad:

Causes of polyps

It is difficult to pinpoint a reason why some people are more at risk of developing polyps than others. Doctors point to a number of risk factors that increase the likelihood of nodules. These include inflammation of the nasal mucosa, sinuses, asthma, cystic fibrosis and a weakened immune system. Cigarette smoke or exposure to fumes from chemicals are also risk factors. Laryngeal polyps are also an occupational condition diagnosed especially in teachers or singers whose vocal cords are overstressed.

Symptoms of laryngeal polyps and treatment options

Characteristic symptoms that should prompt a visit to an ENT specialist include:

  • problems with breathing freely,
  • feeling of dryness in the throat,
  • loss of voice.

Astroboscopic examination of the larynx is performed when polyps are suspected. The doctor anaesthetises the throat and then inserts a stroboscope into it. During the examination, the doctor observes the larynx and vocal folds under high magnification on a monitor. Fibroscopy is an additional method of examination. The treatment of laryngeal polyps depends on the size and abundance of the nodules - it is primarily practised to remove the lesions, as they tend to progress to a malignant form. After surgery, it is advisable to spare the vocal cords and use syrups prescribed by the doctor. The consumption of strong coffee or tea should also be limited. On the other hand, alcohol and smoking should not be consumed. It is also important to prevent dryness of the throat. The procedure to remove laryngeal polyps is not highly invasive. Due to the possibility of cancerous lesions within the larynx, it is advisable to take the option of surgery if medically indicated.