Laryngeal Polyps Flashcards
What is a common symptom of laryngeal polyps?
Hoarseness
What do large laryngeal polyps do?
Dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
Dyspnea (difficulty breathing)
Stridor (high-pitched breathing sound)
What causes laryngeal polyps?
Vocal abuse (excessive talking, singing, screaming)
Irritation from: smoking, intubation, chronic coughing
what do you assess for?
Evaluate hoarseness
Persistent hoarseness → May indicate vocal cord damage or (rarely) malignancy
How is laryngeal polyps diagnosed?
Laryngoscopy (visual examination of vocal cords)
Biopsy → If malignancy is suspected
what is the conservative treatment of laryngeal polyps?
Voice rest and adequate hydration
When is surgery needed?
Large polyp
Causes airway obstruction
Has malignancy potential
how to prevent laryngeal polyps?
Avoid vocal strain (limit excessive talking, yelling, singing)
Stay hydrated (keeps vocal cords lubricated)
Avoid smoking (reduces irritation and inflammation)
What should the pt do?
Seek medical evaluation for persistent hoarseness to rule out malignancy or vocal cord damage.
