Vocal cord nodules are noncancerous growths that develop on the vocal cords, located inside the larynx or voice box. These growths are comparable to calluses that can form on the hands. They appear as symmetrical masses on both vocal cords.
Common Vocal Qualities
A voice affected by vocal nodules exhibits distinct characteristics. Hoarseness is a common symptom, making the voice sound raspy, rough, or scratchy. This hoarseness arises from irregular vocal cord vibration.
Individuals with vocal nodules may experience a breathy voice quality due to incomplete vocal cord closure. This allows air to escape, contributing to a less clear sound. The voice’s pitch can also be affected, sounding lower than usual, with difficulty reaching higher notes or a reduced overall pitch range.
Voice breaks or sudden shifts in pitch can occur, indicating a lack of vocal control. It may become challenging to sustain notes, with the voice wavering or cutting out. Speaking can require more effort, leading to a “pushed” or strained vocal quality and increased vocal fatigue.
How Voice Use Affects the Sound
The sound of vocal nodules can worsen with increased voice use. Prolonged periods of speaking, singing, or any vocal strain can exacerbate vocal qualities. For instance, the voice might begin the day sounding relatively clear but degrade significantly as the day progresses due to accumulated vocal fatigue.
Specific voice characteristics, such as hoarseness and breathiness, intensify after strenuous vocal activities like yelling or extended conversations. This dynamic change reflects the physical stress placed on the vocal cords. Individuals might notice their voice becoming worse after events like cheering at a game or a demanding vocal performance.
Physical Basis of the Sound
Vocal nodules produce these characteristic sounds because they interfere with the normal vibration and closure of the vocal cords. The vocal cords, which are two bands of tissue, vibrate rapidly as air passes through them to create sound. Nodules, being growths on these cords, prevent them from coming together completely.
This incomplete closure leads to air leakage, resulting in the breathy vocal quality. The presence of these masses causes irregular vibration of the vocal cords. This irregular movement contributes to the rough, raspy, or hoarse sound.