Inflamed Vocal Cords: Causes, Symptoms And Treatments
When we have inflamed vocal cords, our voices become strange and a particular discomfort in the neck warns us that something is wrong. In winter, we associate it with going out in the cold and with changes in temperature. However, there are also occupational pathologies behind the disorder.
The vocal cords are actually very small muscles that are located in the larynx. The air passes through there so that we can articulate the voice, due to the vibrations that these fibers experience. When the inflammatory fluid accumulates in the region, it is logical to think that we will not speak the same.
Causes of swollen vocal cords
The vocal cords can become inflamed in themselves, in their entirety or as a consequence of a growth process on their surface. Although more in depth, we would say that the causes can be infectious or non-infectious.
Among the infectious agents we have viruses and bacteria. Laryngitis of this origin has its peak onset in the fall and winter, when low temperatures favor the spread of viral particles and microorganisms that colonize the anatomical area.
To defend itself, the immune system mobilizes white blood cells and immunoglobulins to the region, which increases the flow of fluids that, due to the thinness of the cords, make them collapse. In this way, its functionality is reduced while the process continues.
Infectious laryngitis can last up to 3 weeks, many times without the presence of the initial agent. This is because the immune reaction is prolonged in time and the inflammation persists, despite the absence of what originated it.
At the other extreme, the non-infectious forms of laryngitis have primarily professional origins. Teachers, professors and speakers know well that the little care of the voice and the overexertion of it, lead to the appearance of nodules and polyps.
Inflamed vocal cords in the workplace are a subject of study for forensic medicine. They are considered a consequence of the lack of prevention in work spaces, particularly in schools.
Faced with excessive use, for long periods of time without rest, without hydration and at high sound levels, the small muscles of the larynx accumulate fluid by rubbing against each other. If the practice is repeated, the result is chronicity.
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