Can Vocal Cord Edema Heal with Rest and Hydration After 12 Days?

Will vocal cord edema heal on its own after 12 days of medication, along with self-imposed voice rest and hydration?

Do not lie down for at least three hours after dinner, as it can easily lead to gastroesophageal reflux.
This can also cause damage to the vocal cords due to stomach acid, resulting in hoarseness.
I became aware of this after an endoscopic examination revealed redness in my larynx.
I had been eating dinner late and going to bed early while feeling unwell.
This is quite harmful to the body.
It is said that taking a walk after meals can aid digestion.
During these unusual times, if there is laryngopharyngeal reflux, Dr.
Zhang Xueyi mentioned that there is no specific medication.
He later advised that it requires patient treatment for 2 to 3 months.
I have been taking medications from the otolaryngology department for 12 days now (since March 9).
He advised me to minimize vocal use for improvement.
I am also avoiding gastroesophageal reflux.
Should I consider switching hospitals for another endoscopic examination? I feel quite helpless! Currently, my voice feels a bit strained, requiring effort (otherwise, it sounds breathy) and is somewhat hoarse.
After a cold, I experienced hoarseness and loss of voice from January 29 until now.

Xiu, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/27

Dr. Ji Zhaoyun reply Otolaryngology

Hello, the situation you described may be due to vocal cord edema and chronic pharyngitis.
It is recommended to seek medical attention for a laryngoscopy (to rule out the presence of any masses) and to consider pharmacological treatment.
In addition to medication, please pay attention to the following lifestyle recommendations: avoid lying down for two hours after eating, and refrain from consuming coffee, tea, cigarettes, alcohol, fried foods, and spicy foods, as these can help improve your symptoms.
Wishing you safety and good health.

Reply Date: 2020/03/27

More Info

Vocal cord edema, or swelling of the vocal cords, can indeed improve with rest and proper hydration, but the healing process can vary significantly from person to person. Given that you have already been managing your condition for 12 days, it is essential to consider a few key factors that can influence your recovery.

Firstly, vocal cord edema is often caused by overuse of the voice, irritation from acid reflux, or infections. In your case, it seems that the combination of late-night meals and potential gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) may have contributed to your symptoms. The inflammation and irritation of the vocal cords can lead to hoarseness, a tight feeling in the throat, and difficulty producing sound without straining.

Resting your voice is crucial. This means minimizing speaking, whispering, or any vocal strain. The recommendation to avoid talking as much as possible is a common strategy to allow the vocal cords to heal. Hydration is equally important; drinking plenty of water helps keep the vocal cords lubricated and can assist in reducing inflammation.

In terms of dietary considerations, avoiding late meals and foods that can trigger acid reflux (such as spicy foods, caffeine, and alcohol) is advisable. Elevating your head while sleeping and avoiding lying down immediately after eating can also help prevent reflux, which can further irritate the vocal cords.

Regarding your question about whether you should undergo another endoscopic examination, it may depend on the persistence of your symptoms. If you notice no improvement after adhering to the voice rest and hydration recommendations, or if your symptoms worsen, a follow-up with an ENT specialist may be warranted. An endoscopic examination can provide a clearer picture of the condition of your vocal cords and help rule out any other underlying issues that may require treatment.

It’s also worth noting that while some patients may see improvement in a few weeks, others may take longer, especially if there are contributing factors like GERD. The timeline of 2 to 3 months for complete recovery, as mentioned by your doctor, is not uncommon. If you are experiencing significant discomfort or if your voice does not improve, seeking a second opinion or further evaluation might be beneficial.

In summary, vocal cord edema can heal with proper rest, hydration, and lifestyle adjustments, but the healing process can take time. If your symptoms persist or worsen, consider consulting your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. Remember to be patient with your recovery process, as vocal health is vital for effective communication and overall well-being.

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