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Q: I apparently have something on my vocal cords—but not a node or polyp—that has been caused by reflux, or possibly medications. I have seen two ENT (ear, nose, and throat) doctors and will be going to another specialist, but I haven't received much assurance that there are standard treatments. It seems like lots of folks have reflux. Is there some standard of care in these situations?
A: You may have what is known as a granuloma. This is an inflammatory condition often caused by stomach fluids that reflux upward into the larynx and chronically irritate the tissue. I am in no way saying that this is your condition. I am not a physician and would not presume to diagnose your problem. But you can certainly research this on the internet with keywords “reflux,” “granuloma,” and “larynx.”
Your questions concerning the nature of this mass should be clarified by your ENT doctors. Reflux that causes tissue damage in the larynx is a common and treatable disease but the treatment may take time to work. It involves strict adherence to behavioral changes with regards to eating habits and includes the use of medications to reduce the amount of acid your stomach makes. In some instances, the problem does not respond to this treatment. Surgery is then a possible option.
Because of the prevalence of reflux-related injury to the larynx, I would seek out an ENT who has considerable experience in this area. I am confident you can obtain appropriate treatment.
