A polyp is a growth (usually benign) protruding from a mucous membrane. When polyps are seen over vocal cords they are called as vocal polyps or vocal nodules.

Vocal cords are like two strings present in the voice box (larynx) and are absolutely essential for phonation. Nodules on the vocal cords interfere      

with normal voice functioning and produce a hoarse, breathy or weak voice.

Causes:
Vocal nodules develop from various reasons ranging from voice overuse (such as prolonged singing, shouting or loud talking) or cigarette smoke, viral infection, or chronic inflammation and sinusitis. Moreover, it is believed that polyps or nodules are an allergic inflammatory reaction. Allergy is an altered state of normal immunity that overreacts to otherwise harmless agents.

Symptoms:
The commonest symptom of vocal nodules is hoarseness. The voice may also sound low-pitched or slightly breathy.

Treatment:
Homoeopathic approach towards vocal nodules is more totalistic and holistic. Rather than considering nodules as a local problem, they are considered to be an affection of the constitution. Moreover, allergy (which lies at the root of this problem) is a constitutional problem and calls for constitutional approach for its management. Homoeopathic treatment is based on same constitutional approach for management of any disease. Not only does Homoeopathy help in resolving the nodules that have already formed, it also helps in preventing the recurrence of the vocal nodules.

Suggestion about homoeopathic treatment:
Homoeopathy has a very positive role in the management of vocal polyps, especially when they are small in size. In case of professionals for whom voice is the only thing that matters, risk of alteration of voice quality as a complication of surgery, can be very serious. Interestingly, timely administered homoeopathy treatment can help avoid surgery.

Remarks: Voice Therapy: Correcting the vocal pattern that has created the disorder is very essential and here comes into play the voice therapy. This mainly includes teaching good vocal techniques to the patient that can reduce the amount of pressure put on the vocal cords.