Yes, your vocal cords can bleed.
Understanding how this happens requires looking at the structure of the vocal cords and what can cause trauma to them.
What Causes Vocal Cords to Bleed?
According to the provided reference, a specific event known as a hemorrhage is the mechanism behind vocal cord bleeding.
- Hemorrhage Definition: A hemorrhage in the vocal folds occurs when one or more of the blood vessels within the vocal folds breaks open.
- Result: This breaking open allows blood to fill the vocal fold tissue.
- Potential Complication: Sometimes, this pooled blood can solidify or organize, potentially forming a small ball or a hemorrhagic polyp.
Common Causes of Vocal Fold Hemorrhage
The reference highlights that this bleeding is typically caused by trauma to the vocal fold. Specific examples of traumatic events that can lead to a vocal cord hemorrhage include:
- Extensive coughing
- Extensive screaming
These actions create significant stress and impact on the delicate blood vessels within the vocal fold tissue, leading them to rupture.
Impact of Vocal Cord Bleeding
When vocal cords bleed, it can significantly affect your voice. Symptoms often include sudden hoarseness, loss of voice, or a change in pitch. This condition requires medical attention from an otolaryngologist (an ear, nose, and throat doctor), particularly one specializing in voice disorders. Rest and voice therapy are often part of the recovery process.
