When British singer-songwriter Adele took home six Grammy Awards, including Best Song, Record, and Album of the Year, the world cheered her incredible comeback. Her powerhouse performance of “Rolling in the Deep” that night marked her first major appearance after undergoing vocal cord surgery—a triumphant return that demonstrated both her vocal and personal resilience.
What Is a Vocal Cord Polyp?
Before her unforgettable Grammy performance, Adele faced a significant vocal health challenge. She was forced to cancel several tour dates after being diagnosed with a polyp on her vocal cord. A vocal cord polyp is a noncancerous growth that typically forms due to vocal overuse or abuse, such as excessive talking, yelling, or singing without proper technique. Polyps resemble blisters or bumps on the vocal cords and can cause noticeable voice changes.
Common Symptoms of Vocal Cord Polyps
Polyps can cause a variety of uncomfortable and disruptive symptoms, including:
- Rough, Scratchy Voice: A hoarse, raspy, or breathy voice.
- Lump in the Throat Sensation: A persistent feeling of something being stuck.
- Neck Pain: Discomfort or tension in the neck and throat area.
- Vocal Fatigue: Increased tiredness when speaking or singing.
- Decreased Pitch Range: Difficulty hitting high or low notes.
Adele’s Road to Recovery
Dr. Steven Zeitels from the Center for Laryngeal Surgery at Massachusetts General Hospital performed Adele’s vocal cord surgery, removing the polyp that had caused her voice issues. After the procedure, she was required to follow a strict recovery plan, including two months of complete vocal rest. Adele also made important lifestyle changes, such as quitting smoking, which can significantly impact vocal health.
Surgery Isn’t the Only Option
While surgery was necessary in Adele’s case, vocal cord polyps can often be treated with less invasive methods like voice therapy. For individuals with less severe polyps, voice therapy can help restore vocal health by addressing the root cause of voice issues and teaching techniques for sustainable vocal use.
Benefits of Voice Therapy
Voice therapy focuses on improving vocal function while reducing strain and promoting healing. Some key benefits include:
- Good Vocal Hygiene: Learning habits that protect the voice, such as staying hydrated and avoiding irritants.
- Behavioral Adjustments: Reducing abusive voice behaviors like yelling or speaking loudly for long periods.
- Stress Reduction Techniques: Implementing exercises to relax the throat and vocal muscles.
- Targeted Vocal Exercises: Practicing specific techniques to strengthen the voice and improve vocal endurance.
Our Holistic Approach to Voice Therapy
At Evergreen Speech and Hearing Clinic, our experts use a comprehensive, evidence-based approach to voice therapy. We are trained in specialized techniques such as Lessac-Madsen Resonant Voice Therapy and Vocal Function Exercises to help clients achieve the best possible vocal health outcomes.
If you have concerns about your voice or are experiencing symptoms like hoarseness, vocal fatigue, or a reduced pitch range, contact us today. We offer expert care at our offices in Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond, WA. Let us help you find your voice again!