VOCAL CORD DYSFUNCTION

Vocal Cord Dysfunction, or VCD, is a condition that may mimic asthma. VCD causes asthma-like symptoms because of an abnormal closing of the vocal cords. VCD produces difficulty breathing and even wheezing. Based on symptoms, many people with VCD are often diagnosed with asthma and treated with asthma medications. Since VCD is not asthma, the symptoms do not improve with this treatment. When VCD is not treated properly, it may lead to frequent emergency room visits and hospitalizations. To complicate the situation, some people have a combination of asthma and Vocal Cord Dysfunction.

What Happens With VCD?

To understand VCD, it is helpful to know how the vocal cords function normally. When you breathe in, or inhale, the vocal cords open allowing air to flow into your trachea (windpipe) and reach your lungs. However, with VCD, the vocal cords close together, or constrict, when you inhale. This leaves only a small opening for air to flow into your trachea.

How Is VCD Diagnosed?

Making a diagnosis of VCD can be very difficult. If your physician suspects VCD, you will be asked many questions about your symptoms which may include a chronic cough, shortness of breath, difficulty breathing, chest tightness, throat tightness, "difficulty getting air in", hoarseness, or wheezing. Pulmonary function tests can be helpful in showing VCD. This is most helpful if it is done while you are having symptoms.

A procedure called laryngoscopy is another important test in making the diagnosis of VCD. This procedure is performed by physicians trained in the use of a laryngoscope such as an Ear, Nose, and Throat or an Allergy specialist. Using the flexible laryngoscope, a physician can see how your vocal cords open and close. Ideally, laryngoscopy should be done when you are having symptoms because abnormal vocal cord movements do not occur all the time. Thus, it may be necessary to trigger the symptoms before an accurate diagnosis is made.

What Can Trigger VCD Symptoms?

Triggers of VCD are often similar to asthma triggers. These triggers include upper respiratory infections, irritants, fumes, odors, cigarette smoke, singing, emotional upset, post-nasal drip, exercise, or gastroesophageal reflux. Sometimes the trigger cannot be identified.

How Is VCD Treated?

Once you are diagnosed with VCD, you can begin a specific treatment program. If VCD is your only condition, your asthma medications may be stopped. If you have a combination of asthma and VCD, asthma medications may be continued or altered.

Speech Therapy is an important part of the treatment for VCD. Special exercises increase your awareness of abdominal breathing and relax your throat muscles. This enables you to have more control over your throat. You will learn to practice these exercises while you are symptom-free in order to effectively use the exercises during VCD episodes. These exercises help overcome the abnormal vocal cord movements and improve airflow into your lungs.