The vocal cords, also known as vocal folds, are structures located within the voice box, or larynx. These two bands of muscle tissue vibrate rapidly to create the voice, and they also play a role in breathing and protecting the airway. A common concern is whether everyday actions like coughing can damage them. This article clarifies the connection between coughing and vocal cord health.
How Coughing Affects Vocal Cords
Coughing serves as a protective reflex, forcefully expelling air from the lungs to clear irritants from the breathing passages. During this process, the vocal cords undergo a rapid sequence of opening and closing. They first open widely for a deep inhalation, then close tightly to build up air pressure.
The subsequent forceful expulsion of air causes the vocal cords to separate suddenly. This action creates significant friction and trauma to the vocal cord tissues. While beneficial for clearing the airway, repeated and forceful coughing can lead to irritation and inflammation.
Vocal Cord Injuries from Coughing
Prolonged or forceful coughing can lead to various vocal cord injuries and conditions. One injury is a vocal cord hemorrhage, which occurs when small blood vessels within the vocal folds break. This is considered a vocal emergency, often resulting in a sudden, noticeable change in voice quality.
Another common issue is the development of vocal nodules. These are noncancerous, callus-like growths that form on the vocal cords due to chronic friction and impact. Similar to nodules, vocal polyps are also benign growths, but they are softer and may involve fluid or blood.
Both nodules and polyps can prevent the vocal cords from closing completely, affecting voice production. Vocal granulomas are inflammatory lesions that can develop on the back part of the vocal folds, often in response to irritation from chronic coughing or laryngopharyngeal reflux.
These growths can cause pain, a feeling of a lump in the throat, and hoarseness. Persistent trauma from coughing can contribute to these issues.
Recognizing Vocal Cord Strain
Recognizing vocal cord strain or injury from coughing is important for seeking care. One common indicator is hoarseness, a rough, raspy, or breathy voice. This change occurs because irritated or swollen vocal cords cannot vibrate smoothly.
Individuals may also experience vocal fatigue, a sensation of tiredness or strain after speaking for short periods. Other symptoms include a persistent sore throat, discomfort, or a feeling of a lump in the throat. Frequent throat clearing, which itself can further irritate the vocal cords, often accompanies these symptoms.
Seek medical attention if these symptoms persist for more than two weeks. Severe pain, complete voice loss, or difficulty breathing warrant immediate professional evaluation. Early diagnosis and intervention can help prevent long-term complications and ensure proper healing of the vocal cords.
Protecting Your Vocal Cords
Protecting your vocal cords, especially during coughing, involves several strategies. Maintaining hydration keeps the vocal folds lubricated, reducing friction during vibration. This also helps to thin mucus, making it easier to clear without forceful coughing.
Avoiding behaviors that strain the voice, such as yelling, shouting, or whispering, is important. These actions can increase the impact on already irritated vocal cords.
Resting the voice by minimizing unnecessary speaking allows the tissues time to heal.
Using a humidifier can add moisture to the air, which soothes irritated tissues and helps prevent further damage.
Throat lozenges can help moisturize the mouth and throat, reducing the urge to cough or clear the throat. Addressing the underlying cause of the cough, such as allergies or acid reflux, can also reduce vocal cord irritation.