All About Vocal Nodules

Author: Tyler Vazquez

Editor: Katelyn Ma

Artist: Aurora Chen

Vocal nodules or vocal nodes are any kind of benign growth on the vocal folds, located in the respiratory system. What is so interesting about vocal nodules are the effects they may have on a person, combining both anatomy and, most commonly, music and pedagogy. Many contemporary and classical vocalists such as Mariah Carey, Adele, Freddie Mercury, Luciano Pavarotti, and Sam Smith have had vocal nodes. For now, let’s discuss the effects of vocal nodules on the voice and how advancements in medicine have sought to change that.

Vocal nodules cause several chronic symptoms if not properly treated. These can include hoarseness in the voice, a shorter vocal range and tessitura, the loss of one’s voice, neck pain, and physical fatigue. This is because the vocal folds are so heavily damaged that speaking, singing, or even humming become strenuous