What Are Throat Polyps?

What Are Throat Polyps?

Throat polyps are soft, non-cancerous growths that typically develop on the vocal cords. They form when the tissue of the vocal cords becomes swollen or damaged, usually through repeated strain or irritation over time.

These growths are benign, meaning they are not a sign of cancer. However, they can affect your voice and may cause discomfort if left untreated. Understanding what causes them and recognising the symptoms can help you decide when to seek advice from a healthcare professional.

Causes of Throat Polyps

Polyps on the vocal cords develop for several reasons, though they often share a common theme: ongoing stress or irritation to the throat.

People who use their voice heavily in their work or daily life are more prone to developing polyps. This includes teachers, sports coaches, call centre workers, singers, and actors. Repeated shouting, speaking loudly for extended periods, or straining the voice without rest can cause the vocal cord tissue to swell and form polyps.

Smoking is another significant factor. The chemicals and heat from cigarette smoke irritate the lining of the throat and vocal cords, making polyps more likely to form in heavy smokers. Stopping smoking can reduce the risk and may help existing polyps to improve.

Certain medical conditions can also contribute to polyp development:

• Acid reflux, where stomach acid travels up into the throat, can irritate the vocal cords over time
• Chronic allergies or sinus problems that cause frequent throat clearing can add strain to the area

Throat polyps are occasionally referred to as polypoid degeneration. Reinke's oedema is a related condition characterised by swelling of the vocal cords, often associated with smoking, though it is distinct from polyps.

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Symptoms to Look Out For

Many people have small throat polyps without realising it. Smaller growths often cause no noticeable symptoms and may resolve on their own over time, though most polyps persist until treated.

When polyps grow larger or sit in a position that affects how the vocal cords vibrate, symptoms become more apparent. The most common sign is a change in your voice. You may notice your voice becoming hoarse, rough, or breathy. Some people find their voice drops in pitch, sounding deeper than usual.

Other symptoms can include:

• A scratchy or strained feeling when speaking
• Vocal fatigue, where your voice tires more quickly than it used to
• A sensation of something being in the throat, though this is less common

The feeling of a lump in the throat, sometimes called globus sensation, is a separate condition and is not typically caused by polyps. If you experience this sensation without voice changes, the cause may lie elsewhere.

When to Seek Medical Advice

If you notice persistent changes to your voice lasting more than two to three weeks, it is sensible to speak with your GP. This is especially true if you have not had a recent cold or throat infection that might explain the hoarseness.

Your GP may refer you to an ear, nose and throat specialist for further assessment. A specialist can examine your vocal cords using a small camera passed through the nose, a procedure called a laryngoscopy. This allows them to see any polyps directly and assess their size and position.

Treatment depends on the size and cause of the polyps. In some cases, voice therapy with a speech and language therapist can help reduce strain on the vocal cords and allow smaller polyps to heal. Addressing underlying causes, such as acid reflux or smoking, can also make a difference.

For larger polyps that do not respond to conservative treatment, surgical removal may be considered. Your ENT specialist will discuss options tailored to your condition. The procedure is generally straightforward and carried out under general anaesthetic. Most people recover their voice within a few weeks, though full healing can take longer. As with any surgery, there are potential risks, which your specialist will explain beforehand.

If you have persistent hoarseness or other voice changes, see your GP promptly. They can refer you to a specialist if necessary to determine the best approach for your situation.