I had a severe cough for about 2 years that had gradually improved and then disappeared. I had been to the Dr. a couple times but no one ever knew what it was from. After having that problem, I had a significant change in my voice. Being that I cannot even get a sound out when I try to sing or its horribly strained, and my voice seems deeper. When I went to an ENT for sinus issues, he noted that I had pretty good calluses on my vocal cords. But he said it wasn't a problem. It is to me, because I want my voice normal...even if I'm not a professional singer, I love to sing and I miss being able to and I don't like my voice being changed. Is there anything that can help with this or can make the calluses go away ? Thank you.
Melissa Kim, M.S., CCC-SLP replies...
When and Ear, Nose, and Throat physician refers to "calluses" on the vocal cords, he/ she is most often referring to what are known as vocal cord nodules. Vocal cord nodules are the most common benign vocal cord lesions, and are sometimes referred to as "singers nodes." Treatment is usually voice therapy with a speech pathologist, which can often result in successful resolution of the nodules; in some cases where therapy is not effective, surgery may be indicated to remove the nodules and therefore improve the voice. Ask your physician for a referral to a speech pathologist experienced in the treatment of voice disorders.
Best of luck to you,
Melissa Kim M.S., CCC-SLP
Speech Pathology Coordinator