Vocal cord dysfunction is basically a syndrome that triggers asthma-like symptoms due to the abnormal closure of the vocal cords. The symptoms of the condition can include shortness of breath, wheezing and neck or chest tightness. Take note that the condition strikingly mimics asthma which is why this syndrome is also called as vocal cord asthma.
The use of asthma medications will have no effect on vocal cord dysfunction. Due to this, an individual with this condition might have been taken to the emergency department several times and provided with asthma medications including corticosteroids taken orally without providing relief to the symptoms.
What happens during vocal cord dysfunction?
Normally, the vocal cords open up to allow air to move through when taking a deep breath. Then, the vocal cords close and vibrate over the airway to produce sound when talking. Among individuals with vocal cord dysfunction, the vocal cords close over the airway involuntarily during inhalation, thus making it hard to breathe. Even though this sounds dangerous, there is a small region at the rear of the airway that is not affected, thus the individual still gets enough oxygen during an attack.
Diagnosing vocal cord dysfunction
Initially, the doctor should suspect this condition. The indications to the diagnosis include an individual who has been diagnosed with severe asthma, yet has not responded to any of the commonly used medications.
The individual might been taken to the emergency room or even hospitalized several times. Even so, the condition stays difficult to manage. Once the condition is suspected, testing is performed such as spirometry. The suitable test to check the movement of the vocal cords is by using a nasal endoscope.
Causes of vocal cord dysfunction
The exact cause of vocal cord dysfunction is not yet fully known or understood. Some believe that the condition might be linked to stress or anxiety or even to an underlying psychiatric condition. Lately, the condition is also connected to GERD as well as laryngeal spasms.
Triggers of vocal cord dysfunction
The condition seems to be triggered in various ways. Some with vocal cord dysfunction have exercise as the only trigger for the symptoms. The intensity of the exercise required to trigger the condition depends on the individual.
In some, anxiety and stress especially social situations are the usual trigger. In addition, other triggers include irritants which include GERD as well as inhalation of environmental irritants such as perfumes or strong odors.
Treatment of vocal cord dysfunction
There are various treatment options in managing the condition. The forms of treatment used include the following:
- Breathing exercises
- Speech therapy
- Biofeedback
- Relaxation techniques
- Hypnotherapy
- Tracheostomy
- Management of GERD
- Injection of botulism toxin to the vocal cords
How long the condition lasts?
In a study conducted, almost all individuals who were diagnosed with the condition had full disappearance of symptoms within in a 5-year time span with most experiencing symptoms for 6 months or less.