“The raspiness in Jeff Gordon’s voice is the result of a polyp on the driver’s vocal cords. Doctors made the discovery last month when the Winston Cup points leader complained of a fever and of being hoarse most mornings. A Charlotte ear, nose and throat specialist put a camera down Gordon’s throat and identified the polyp, a small, benign outgrowth of tissue. Gordon said the polyp is sometimes painful. Gordon will likely have the polyp removed after the season, but until then, he has reduced his morning commitments. Orators and singers commonly develop polyps as a result of chronic irritation or overuse of the vocal cords, said Dr. Kevin Smith, a track physician at Charlotte Motor Speedway.”(Charlotte Observer)(10-4-97)
