Several conditions can affect the voice and benefit from specialist care:

• Vocal nodules — callous-like growths on the vocal folds from chronic overuse. Common in teachers, singers, and coaches. Often treatable with voice therapy alone.
• Vocal polyps — fluid-filled growths usually on one fold, often from a single traumatic event like screaming. May require surgical removal.
• Vocal fold paralysis — one fold does not move properly, causing a breathy voice and swallowing difficulties. This needs prompt specialist evaluation.