What is Vocal Cord Dysfunction?
Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD) is a condition where the vocal cords involuntarily close when they should be open, especially during breathing. This abnormal movement can cause difficulty breathing, throat tightness, and voice changes. It is often mistaken for asthma because of similar symptoms.
What Are the Symptoms of Vocal Cord Dysfunction?
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty breathing in (inspiratory stridor)
- Throat tightness or choking sensation
- Hoarseness or voice changes
- Frequent coughing or throat clearing
- Shortness of breath, especially during exercise or stress
- Feeling of a lump in the throat (globus sensation)
What Causes Vocal Cord Dysfunction?
VCD can be triggered by various factors, such as:
- Stress or anxiety
- Respiratory infections
- Allergies or irritants like smoke, fumes, or strong odors
- Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
- Exercise or physical exertion
- Neurological conditions affecting vocal cord control
How is Vocal Cord Dysfunction Diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
- Detailed medical history and symptom review
- Physical examination focusing on breathing patterns
- Laryngoscopy to directly observe the vocal cords during breathing
- Pulmonary function tests to rule out asthma or other lung diseases
- Sometimes speech therapy assessment
How is Vocal Cord Dysfunction Treated?
- Behavioral and Speech Therapy
- Breathing exercises to control vocal cord movement
- Speech therapy to retrain vocal cord function and reduce symptoms
- Relaxation techniques to manage stress
- Medications
- Treatment of underlying conditions such as GERD or allergies
- Inhalers or other medications are generally not effective for VCD itself but may be used if asthma coexists
- Lifestyle Modifications
- Avoiding known triggers like smoke, strong odors, or allergens
- Stress management through counseling or therapy
Complications of Untreated Vocal Cord Dysfunction
- Frequent episodes of breathing difficulty
- Misdiagnosis leading to unnecessary asthma treatments
- Impact on quality of life due to breathing distress and anxiety