Can long-term, treatment-resistant vocal cord polyps lead to cancer?
Disease description:
I've been treating my vocal cord polyp for a long time, but it just won't heal. Can a vocal cord polyp that remains unhealed for a prolonged period turn into cancer?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Xu Gang
A vocal cord polyp that fails to heal over a long period generally does not lead to cancer. However, if the patient frequently misuses their voice—such as by shouting loudly—it may cause congestion, swelling, and dehydration of the vocal cords, resulting in hoarseness that progressively worsens. Patients can take oral anti-inflammatory medications and increase their intake of fruits and vegetables. If symptoms do not improve with these measures, surgical removal may be considered.
