Vocal fold nodules
The vocal fold nodules usually appear in the area from the front to the middle third of the vocal fold. This is often the area that is subjected to the most stress. At first the vocal fold nodules are visible to the physician as soft, later as more solid mucous membrane enlargements on the vocal folds.
They always occur on both sides. In children, they are called “cry nodules”. In adults as well as in children, the cause lies in overstraining the voice.
Often (young) women are affected. In children, the vocal fold nodules are often associated with hearing disorders or benign tumors. They appear in the form of a dark voice.
In adults, the vocal folds usually lead to hoarseness. The treatment of the vocal nodules in adults includes speech therapy and microsurgical removal of the nodules. In children, the cry nodules are usually treated conservatively with supportive voice therapy from a speech therapist for children.
Symptoms of laryngitis due to backflow of gastric acid
A reflux of acid stomach contents back into the esophagus is called gastroesophageal reflux. This is caused by an insufficiency of the stomach entrance or the esophageal sphincter. The acid gastric juice can initially lead to acute inflammatory processes in the area of the esophagus and larynx.
The laryngitis that can be triggered by this is known as “posterior laryngitis” or in technical jargon as laryngitis posterior. If the reflux is permanent or recurrent, the stomach acid may cause injury, scarring and ulcers in the esophagus. The symptoms are heartburn, difficulty swallowing and burning pain.
The laryngeal mucosa is swollen and reddened. The reflux disease and the resulting laryngitis should definitely be examined by a doctor. Endoscopic examinations and pH measurements are usually used for diagnosis and follow-up.
The development of the symptoms is often caused by sumptuous meals, caffeine, alcohol, effort and stress. Therefore, the symptoms usually improve when eating and living habits change. In addition, certain stomach-protecting drugs, so-called proton pump inhibitors, can support the healing process.
