Vocal cysts are also benign lesions occurring on the edge of the vocal folds, but cysts are usually unilateral and require surgical excision. Vocal polyps are unilateral pedunculated lesions that occur predominantly in men and are associated with smoking and vocal abuse. Vocal polyps result in hoarse, rough, low-pitched speech and usually require surgery. Changes in air pressure in the ear may result in barotrauma if the normal function of the eustachian tube is compromised. The most common situation is airline travel in a person with inflammation, but scuba diving can also produce significant barotrauma.
Patients complain of ear pain and loss of hearing.
Uncompensated air pressure changes cause distortion and increased vascularization of the tympanic membrane followed by edema of the middle ear mucosa and even bleeding into the middle ear. Rapid air pressure changes may result in perforation of the tympanic membrane. Symptoms are usually relieved by analgesics and decongestants. Perforations usually heal well without intervention. Prevention of barotrauma is based on avoiding pressure changes if possible and taking measures to enhance eustachian tube efficiency.