What are vocal cord cysts, their causes, types, and how to treat them

Have you ever experienced persistent hoarseness or felt like your voice isn’t as clear as before? It could be due to vocal cord cysts! These are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop on the vocal cords and are filled with fluid or mucus, affecting voice clarity and performance.What causes them? Overuse of the voice, excessive shouting, or even frequent throat infections.In this article, we’ll explain what vocal cord cysts are, their causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment—so you can keep your voice strong and clear!

Who Is at Risk of Developing Vocal Cord Cysts?

Vocal cord cysts can affect anyone, but some people are more at risk due to how they use their voice or certain health conditions.

People Who Use Their Voice Professionally

This group is at the highest risk due to continuous vocal strain, including:

Singers – Especially those who sing in high pitches or for long periods.
Teachers – They speak loudly every day for extended hours.
Broadcasters & Sports Commentators – Their job relies heavily on their voice, which can strain their vocal cords.
Public Speakers & Preachers – They project their voice strongly for long durations.
Actors – Especially those who perform roles involving shouting or dramatic voice changes.

Why Are They More at Risk?

Constant vocal stress leads to repeated inflammation, which can contribute to cyst formation.
Not using proper vocal techniques, like diaphragmatic breathing, increases strain on the vocal cords.

People Who Frequently Shout or Speak Loudly

Those who raise their voice often are also highly susceptible, such as:

Parents – Especially those dealing with young children and frequently raising their voice.
Sports Fans – Continuous shouting at games puts pressure on the vocal cords.
Workers in Noisy Environments – Such as markets or factories, where speaking loudly is necessary to be heard.

Why Are These Groups at Higher Risk?

The vocal cords aren’t designed for repeated screaming, which can cause tiny tears that develop into cysts over time.
Internal bleeding in the vocal cord can occur, leading to the formation of a blood-filled cyst.

People with Chronic Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions increase the likelihood of developing vocal cord cysts, including:

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) – Acid reflux irritates the throat, leading to frequent inflammation.
Smokers – Smoking causes dryness and chronic inflammation of the vocal cords, increasing cyst formation.
Chronic allergy sufferers – Persistent coughing and throat inflammation raise the risk of cysts.
Thyroid disorders – Thyroid function affects vocal cord health, making cyst formation more likely.

Why Do These Health Issues Cause Cysts?

Frequent inflammation blocks fluid drainage in the vocal cords, leading to retention cysts.
Smoking and acid reflux damage laryngeal tissues, making cyst formation more likely.

Children and Teenagers Who Misuse Their Voice

Kids who frequently scream or teenagers who strain their voice aggressively are also at risk, especially:

Children who love voice mimicry or singing loudly.
Teenagers who speak with a rough voice or frequently alter their vocal tone.
Kids who habitually shout or talk loudly all the time.

Why Are Children and Teenagers at Risk?

Their vocal cords are still developing, so excessive use can lead to strain and the formation of small cysts.

How to Protect Yourself from Vocal Cord Cysts

✔ Speak in a natural and balanced tone – Avoid yelling and excessive vocal strain.
✔ Stay hydrated – Drinking plenty of water keeps the vocal cords moist and prevents dryness.
✔ Practice vocal exercises – Breathing exercises and vocal warm-ups help maintain vocal cord health.
✔ Treat underlying health conditions – If you have acid reflux or allergies, take proper treatment to protect your voice.

How to Reduce the Risk of Developing Cysts

✔ Use your voice correctly – If you speak or sing frequently, support your voice with diaphragmatic breathing.
✔ Stay well-hydrated – Keeping your throat moist helps prevent vocal cord damage.
✔ Avoid shouting and vocal strain – Don’t raise your voice suddenly or misuse it in a way that causes stress.
✔ Perform regular vocal exercises – Breathing and vocal hydration exercises help keep your vocal cords healthy.
✔ Manage chronic health conditions – If you suffer from acid reflux or allergies, ensure you get proper treatment to protect your voice.

Types of Vocal Cord Cysts

Mucus Retention Cysts

This type of cyst is filled with clear fluid and forms due to blockage of mucus-secreting glands in the larynx. It is often caused by vocal misuse.

Epidermoid Cysts

These cysts are made of skin cells (epidermis) and keratin. They usually develop due to improper vocal cord use, such as frequent shouting, prolonged loud speech, or persistent coughing.

Oncocytic Cysts

A rare type, more common with aging. These cysts consist of epithelial cells linked to salivary glands. Their exact cause is unclear, but they may be associated with genetic factors or chronic laryngeal inflammation.

Main Causes of Vocal Cord Cysts

Excessive Voice Use and Vocal Strain

Speaking loudly for long periods, constant shouting, or improper singing techniques can put significant stress on the vocal cords. This may lead to blocked mucus glands, causing mucus buildup and cyst formation.

Respiratory Infections

Chronic throat or vocal cord infections (such as laryngitis) can affect the mucus glands, disrupting their normal function and leading to cyst development over time.

Mucus Gland Blockage

The mucus glands help keep the vocal cords hydrated, but if they become blocked, trapped fluids accumulate, forming mucus-filled cysts.

Congenital Factors

Some individuals have a genetic predisposition to developing cysts. These may be present from birth but often remain unnoticed until external factors, such as excessive voice use or recurrent infections, trigger their growth.

Smoking and Pollutant Exposure

Smoking and exposure to polluted air or chemicals cause chronic inflammation of the vocal cords. This increases the risk of cyst formation by damaging the mucosal lining.

Symptoms of Vocal Cord Cysts

The symptoms of vocal cord cysts vary depending on their size and location, but they generally affect the voice and cause discomfort in the throat. Here are the most common symptoms:

Hoarseness

The voice may become rough, strained, or unclear because the cyst prevents the vocal cords from vibrating normally.

Voice Fatigue

The person may feel that their voice tires quickly, even when speaking normally, requiring extra effort to produce sound.

Feeling of Something Stuck in the Throat

There may be a constant sensation of something lodged in the throat or a persistent urge to clear it due to the presence of the cyst irritating the vocal cords.

Voice Breaking or Weakness

The voice may cut in and out or become very weak, as the cyst affects the flexibility of the vocal cords, preventing them from vibrating properly.

Mild Pain or Throat Discomfort

Some individuals may experience slight pain or a feeling of discomfort in the throat, especially after prolonged speaking.

Changes in Vocal Pitch

People who rely on their voices, such as singers or broadcasters, may struggle to reach certain pitches due to the cyst's impact on vocal range.

Persistent Cough or Dry Throat Sensation

Some individuals may have a constant urge to cough or feel throat dryness due to irritation caused by the cyst.

Diagnosis of Vocal Cord Cysts

An ENT specialist diagnoses vocal cord cysts using several examinations to confirm their presence, determine their size, and assess their impact on the voice. Here are the key diagnostic methods:

Clinical Examination & Symptom Review

The doctor will start by asking about your symptoms, such as hoarseness, vocal fatigue, or the sensation of something stuck in your throat. They will also inquire about your voice habits, like frequent loud talking or smoking.

Laryngoscopy

A thin tube with a small camera is inserted through the mouth or nose to provide a clear view of the vocal cords and confirm the presence of a cyst.

Stroboscopy

An advanced test that uses a flashing light (like a strobe) to capture the vocal cords’ movements during speech. This helps evaluate how the cyst affects vibration and voice quality.

Voice Evaluation

A speech therapist may perform a specialized voice analysis using professional equipment to assess voice quality, hoarseness severity, and the cyst's impact on vocal function.

MRI or CT Scan (in rare cases)

If the doctor suspects a large cyst or one located deep within the vocal cords, an MRI or CT scan may be recommended for a more detailed view.

Retention Cyst

A retention cyst forms when a mucus gland in the vocal cord becomes blocked, causing mucus to accumulate inside the cyst instead of being naturally released. These cysts are usually small but can lead to voice hoarseness or a throat obstruction sensation.

Symptoms:

✔ Persistent hoarseness
✔ Feeling of something stuck in the throat
✔ Quick vocal fatigue, even with normal speech

Treatment:

✔ In some cases, the cyst may resolve on its own with voice therapy and speech exercises
✔ If the cyst is large or causes significant problems, a minor surgical procedure may be required to remove it.

Types of Vocal Cord Cysts

Epidermoid Cyst (Dermoid Cyst)

This type of cyst contains accumulated skin cells within a tissue layer and is firmer than a mucus retention cyst. It significantly affects the voice because it prevents the normal vibration of the vocal cords.

Symptoms:

✔ Noticeable voice changes, such as dryness or quick fatigue.
✔ No significant pain, but it affects voice quality.

Treatment:

✔ Surgery is the best solution because it does not resolve on its own.
✔ After surgery, speech therapy is needed to improve voice quality.

Fibrous or Sulcus Vocalis Cyst

This type of cyst appears as a groove or indentation in the vocal cord, which severely affects voice quality, making it weak and easily fatigued.

Symptoms:

✔ Weak, unclear voice.
✔ The person can only speak for a short time before experiencing vocal fatigue.

Treatment:

✔ Speech therapy can help in some cases.
✔ Surgery may be necessary if the condition significantly impacts the voice.

Hemorrhagic Cyst

This occurs when a vocal cord hemorrhage leads to blood accumulation, forming a cyst. It can cause a sudden change in voice quality and sometimes requires urgent medical intervention.

Symptoms:

✔ Sudden loss of voice or severe hoarseness.
✔ Persistent vocal fatigue, even with minimal talking.

Treatment:

✔ Complete voice rest initially, along with medications to reduce inflammation.
✔ If the cyst is large, surgical removal may be necessary.

Lipomatous Cyst (Fatty Cyst)

Why Does It Occur?

✔ Formed from fatty tissues, and it is very rare in the vocal cords.

Symptoms:

✔ Usually does not cause major issues but may affect voice clarity.
✔ Sometimes makes the voice deeper than usual.

Treatment:

✔ If small and not affecting the voice, no treatment is required.
✔ If it grows and affects the voice, surgery is the solution.

What Should You Do If You Have a Vocal Cord Cyst?

✔ Don't worry—most cases are not serious and can be treated with voice rest or a simple surgery.
✔ If you experience voice changes for more than two weeks, consult an ENT specialist to determine the type of cyst and the best treatment for you.

What’s Next After Diagnosis?

Once the doctor determines the size and impact of the cyst, they recommend the best treatment, which may include:

✔ Voice Rest – Reducing voice usage for a certain period to relieve strain on the vocal cords.
✔ Speech Therapy – Learning to use the voice correctly through specialized exercises.
✔ Surgery (if necessary) – Removing the cyst with laser or microscopic surgery if it is large or significantly affects the voice.

How to Identify Your Vocal Cord Cyst in Detail?

If you have persistent hoarseness, vocal fatigue, or a feeling of something stuck in your throat, you might have a vocal cord cyst. To determine its type, size, and effect on your voice, the doctor will conduct detailed examinations.

Step 1: Initial Medical Examination

What happens?
✔ The doctor will ask about symptoms: When did they start? Are they getting worse? Do they affect daily life?
✔ Examination of the throat and larynx to rule out conditions like laryngitis or acid reflux.
✔ Questions about vocal habits such as shouting, singing, or excessive voice use.

Step 2: Laryngoscopy (Vocal Cord Examination with a Scope)

How is it done?

✔ Flexible scope: A thin tube with a small camera inserted through the nose for a direct view of the vocal cords.
✔ Rigid scope: Inserted through the mouth, providing a clearer image, but it may be slightly uncomfortable.

What does it reveal?
✔ The exact location of the cyst on the vocal cord.
✔ Its size and shape (small or large?).
✔ Presence of redness or swelling around it.
✔ Whether the vocal cords move normally.

Step 3: Stroboscopy (Advanced Vocal Cord Motion Test)

What is it?
✔ An advanced examination using a high-tech camera that captures the slow-motion movement of the vocal cords.
✔ Uses a pulsing light to highlight vibrations and voice quality.

Why is it useful?
✔ Helps determine if the cyst is affecting vocal cord movement.
✔ Shows whether the cyst prevents normal voice vibration.
✔ Helps the doctor decide between speech therapy or surgery.

Step 4: MRI or CT Scan

When is it needed?
✔ If the cyst is large or deeply embedded in the vocal cord tissue.
✔ If the doctor suspects something unusual and wants a detailed scan.

What does it reveal?
✔ Whether the cyst contains blood (hemorrhagic cyst) or just fluid.
✔ Whether it has fatty tissues or skin cells (dermoid or lipomatous cyst).
✔ How deep the cyst is and its impact on surrounding tissue.

Step 5: Biopsy (Tissue Analysis – Rare Cases)

When is it done?
✔ In very rare cases, if the doctor suspects the cyst is not normal or could be linked to an abnormal growth.
✔ A small sample is taken during surgery and analyzed in a lab to confirm its nature.

Conclusion

✔ Most vocal cord cysts are harmless and can be treated effectively.
✔ Early diagnosis and treatment (whether therapy or surgery) help restore voice quality.
✔ If you notice persistent voice changes, see an ENT specialist for proper evaluation.

How to Differentiate Between Types Yourself?

Listen to Your Voice and Feel Your Symptoms:

Type of Cyst	Main Symptoms	Throat Sensation
Retention Cyst	Mild to moderate hoarseness, vocal strain	Feeling of something stuck
Dermoid Cyst	Dry voice, persistent hoarseness	Dryness in the voice
Hemorrhagic Cyst	Sudden voice loss after shouting or strain	Mild pain or pressure sensation
Lipomatous Cyst	Slight change in voice tone	Rarely causes noticeable sensation

When Should You See a Doctor Immediately?

If hoarseness lasts more than three weeks without improvement.
If you suddenly lose your voice after a loud scream or extreme vocal strain.
If you experience persistent pain or difficulty swallowing along with voice issues.
If symptoms worsen over time instead of improving.

Treatment of Vocal Cord Cysts: What’s the Solution?

The treatment of cysts depends on their size, impact on the voice, and whether they cause speech difficulties. In some cases, a cyst may remain without causing major issues, but if it affects the voice, several treatment options are available:

Voice Rest and Vocal Adjustment

Reduce talking for a certain period to relieve strain on the vocal cords.
Avoid shouting or speaking loudly, as it increases stress on the larynx.
Drink warm fluids and keep the throat hydrated to maintain vocal cord health.

Speech Therapy (Voice Therapy)

A speech therapist can guide you through exercises to improve voice use and reduce strain on the vocal cords.
This treatment is especially beneficial for professionals who rely on their voice, such as singers, broadcasters, and teachers.

Treating the Underlying Cause of the Cyst

If the cyst is caused by gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), the doctor may prescribe medications to reduce stomach acid.
If smoking is the cause, quitting is essential to prevent continuous irritation of the vocal cords.
If laryngitis is the reason, the doctor will treat the infection or inflammation that led to the cyst’s formation.

Surgery (For Large or Severe Cysts)

Microsurgical Excision: A precise procedure to remove the cyst without damaging the vocal cord tissue.
Laser Treatment: In some cases, laser technology is used for accurate cyst removal with minimal impact on the voice.

Surgery is considered a last resort if other treatments fail since any intervention on the vocal cords must be performed carefully to avoid harming the voice.

Steps of Vocal Cord Cyst Removal Surgery

If the cyst is large or significantly affects the voice, the doctor may decide to perform surgery to remove it. The procedure is done with precision to protect the vocal cords and prevent any voice damage.

Pre-Surgery Preparation

Medical Examination: The doctor will conduct a thorough examination of the vocal cords using an endoscope to determine the exact size and location of the cyst.
Fasting Before Surgery: You must avoid eating and drinking for 6-8 hours (as instructed by the doctor).
Stopping Certain Medications: If you take blood thinners (like aspirin), your doctor may ask you to stop them before surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.

Anesthesia

The procedure is performed under general anesthesia, meaning you will be asleep and won’t feel anything during surgery.
In rare cases, local anesthesia may be used for minor procedures.

Surgical Procedure

Using a Surgical Endoscope (Microlaryngoscopy)

The doctor inserts a thin endoscope through the mouth to access the vocal cords without external incisions.
The endoscope is connected to a camera, displaying a magnified view of the vocal cords on a screen for precise control.

Cyst Removal

There are two main techniques for removing the cyst:

Microsurgical Excision: The doctor uses tiny surgical instruments to remove the cyst without damaging the vocal cord tissue.
Laser Surgery: In some cases, a laser is used for precise removal, minimizing bleeding and promoting faster healing.

Ensuring Vocal Cord Safety

After removing the cyst, the doctor checks that the vocal cords are intact and vibrating properly.
If needed, the tissue may be cauterized to prevent bleeding or scarring.

Post-Surgery Recovery

Immediately After Surgery

Hospital Stay: You'll be monitored for a few hours before being discharged home.

Recovery Guidelines

Complete Voice Rest: Avoid speaking entirely for 3-7 days to allow the vocal cords to heal properly.
Drink Warm Fluids: Keep your throat hydrated, but avoid extremely hot or cold drinks.
Avoid Smoking & Irritants: Smoke, dust, and caffeinated drinks can slow down recovery.
Follow-Up Appointment: After about two weeks, you’ll need to see your doctor to ensure proper healing of the vocal cords.

Therapeutic Exercises for Vocal Cords After Cyst Removal

After surgery, it’s crucial to gradually exercise your voice to restore its strength and improve vocal performance without strain. These exercises are best done under a speech therapist’s supervision, but they can also be practiced at home.

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing Exercise

Benefit: Strengthens breath control for better voice stability.

Steps:

Sit comfortably or lie on your back.
Inhale deeply through your nose, making sure your belly (not your chest) expands.
Hold your breath for three seconds, then exhale slowly through your mouth while making a soft “Hhh” sound.
Repeat 10 times daily.

2. Humming Exercise

Benefit: Stimulates the vocal cords' natural vibrations and relaxes them.

Steps:

Take a deep breath through your nose.
Close your lips and produce a gentle “Mmmmmm” sound for five seconds.
Feel the vibration in your lips and nose.
Repeat 10 times.

3. Lip Trills Exercise

Benefit: Reduces vocal strain and improves airflow during speech.

Steps:

Inhale deeply through your nose.
Exhale while fluttering your lips (like a "brrr" sound).
Continue for 5-10 seconds per round.
Repeat 10 times.

4. Easy Onset Speech Exercise

Benefit: Helps produce sound gently without vocal strain.

Steps:

Inhale deeply through your nose.
Start speaking softly with a gentle “Ahhh” sound.
Try words that begin with soft sounds like “H” or “M” (e.g., “Hmm” or “Ha”).
Repeat 10 times.

5. Glide Sounds Exercise

Benefit: Improves vocal cord flexibility and restores natural pitch range.

Steps:

Take a deep breath.
Say “Woooo” or “Yeeee” starting from a low pitch, then gradually glide up.
Then, glide back down from high to low pitch.
Repeat 5 times gently.

6. Silent Speech Exercise

Benefit: Prepares the vocal cords for speech without strain.

Steps:

Move your lips as if speaking, but without using your voice (silent articulation).
Avoid forcing any sound.
After a while, try speaking softly with a light, natural voice.

7. Gargling with Warm Water

Benefit: Soothes the vocal cords and improves blood circulation.

Steps:

Take a small sip of lukewarm water.
Gargle gently without making a loud sound.
Repeat 3-5 times daily.

Recovery Time

✔️ Most people recover from hoarseness within two weeks, but full voice recovery may take a month or longer.
✔️ If the surgery was done with a laser, healing is usually much faster.

Is the Surgery Dangerous?

No, this procedure is safe and simple when performed by a specialized doctor. Complications are very rare.
The most important thing is to follow your doctor’s post-surgery instructions to protect your voice and ensure a fast recovery.

Important Tips with Exercises

✔ Start slowly and don’t rush into speaking too much.
✔ Stay hydrated with warm water to keep your throat moist.
✔ Avoid shouting or speaking loudly for some time.
✔ Stop immediately if you feel pain or strain while doing the exercises.
✔ If you notice any issues, consult your doctor or speech therapist.

Natural Herbs for Treating Vocal Cord Cysts & Improving Voice

If your voice feels strained or you have vocal cord cysts, certain natural herbs can help soothe the throat and reduce inflammation. However, these remedies are not a replacement for medical treatment—if your condition is severe, consult a doctor.

1. Ginger

Benefits:
✔ Natural anti-inflammatory that helps soothe the throat.
✔ Improves blood circulation to the vocal cords, promoting faster healing.

How to Use:

Boil a slice of ginger in a cup of water for 5 minutes, strain, and drink warm with a spoon of honey.
Add grated ginger to green tea or any warm drink.
If you have acid reflux, limit ginger intake as it may irritate your stomach.

2. Honey

Benefits:
✔ Moisturizes the throat and protects the vocal cords from dryness.
✔ Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.

How to Use:

Take a spoon of raw honey on an empty stomach every morning.
Add it to warm (not hot) herbal teas like ginger or lemon tea.
Avoid mixing honey with boiling liquids to preserve its benefits.

3. Licorice Root

Benefits:
✔ Soothes throat inflammation and improves voice clarity.
✔ Helps maintain vocal cord hydration.

How to Use:

Boil one teaspoon of licorice root in a cup of water and drink warm.
Avoid overconsumption, as licorice may raise blood pressure.

4. Chamomile

Benefits:
✔ A natural throat relaxant that reduces vocal strain.
✔ Has antibacterial properties, helping treat infections that might cause cysts.

How to Use:

Drink a warm cup of chamomile tea twice daily.
Inhale chamomile steam to keep the throat moisturized.

Additional Tips:

✔ Drink warm (not hot) fluids to avoid throat irritation.
✔ Avoid smoking, caffeine, and shouting to protect your voice.
✔ Stay hydrated—drink plenty of water throughout the day.
✔ If symptoms persist, consult a specialist for proper treatment.

The Right Specialist for Treating Vocal Cord Cysts

The best medical specialties for diagnosing and treating vocal cord cysts are:

ENT Specialist (Ear, Nose, and Throat - ENT Doctor)
✔ Diagnoses the condition and determines the best treatment approach (medications, speech therapy, or surgery if needed).

Speech Therapist / Phoniatrician
✔ Helps with voice therapy and exercises to strengthen the vocal cords, especially if the cyst affects your voice quality or performance.

When Should You See a Doctor?

Persistent hoarseness lasting more than 3 weeks.
Voice fatigue or difficulty speaking for long periods.
Feeling like there’s something stuck in your throat.

Best Approach:
Start by seeing an ENT specialist. If needed, they will refer you to a speech therapist for further treatment.