Summary about Disease
Vocal cord spasm (laryngospasm) is a sudden, involuntary contraction of the vocal cord muscles. This can cause difficulty breathing, speaking, or swallowing. The spasms can be brief and mild, or prolonged and severe, potentially leading to a complete blockage of the airway. It is often triggered by irritants, anxiety, or underlying medical conditions.
Symptoms
Difficulty breathing (shortness of breath, feeling like you can't get enough air)
Stridor (a high-pitched, whistling sound during breathing)
Gasping or choking sensations
Hoarseness or changes in voice
Coughing
Tightness in the throat
Panic or anxiety
Bluish skin discoloration (cyanosis) in severe cases due to lack of oxygen
Causes
Irritants: Acid reflux (GERD), postnasal drip, allergies, smoke, dust, chemical fumes
Anxiety and Stress: Psychological stress can trigger spasms.
Underlying Medical Conditions: Asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), neurological disorders
Surgical Procedures: Intubation during anesthesia, particularly in children
Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD): A related condition where the vocal cords paradoxically close during inhalation
Neurological Issues: Damage to the nerves controlling the vocal cords.
Hypocalcemia: Low calcium levels can cause muscle spasms, including vocal cords.
Medicine Used
Muscle Relaxants: In severe cases, medication like benzodiazepines might be used to relax the muscles.
Anti-anxiety Medications: If anxiety is a trigger, medications to manage anxiety may be prescribed.
Acid Reflux Medications: Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) or H2 blockers can help control acid reflux, if that is a cause.
Bronchodilators: In some instances, bronchodilators (like albuterol) might be used if asthma or related conditions are contributing.
Calcium Supplements: If hypocalcemia is the cause, calcium supplements may be needed.
Is Communicable
No, vocal cord spasm is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Identify and Avoid Triggers: Keep a log to identify triggers like allergens, foods, or situations that cause spasms.
Manage Underlying Conditions: Control conditions like GERD, asthma, and allergies.
Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or yoga.
Hydration: Staying hydrated can help thin mucus and reduce irritation.
Proper Breathing Techniques: Learn and practice techniques to open the airway during a spasm.
How long does an outbreak last?
The duration of a vocal cord spasm is typically short, ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes. However, the frequency of spasms can vary significantly from person to person. Some may experience them rarely, while others may have them more frequently, depending on their triggers and underlying conditions.
How is it diagnosed?
Medical History and Physical Exam: The doctor will ask about symptoms, triggers, and medical history.
Laryngoscopy: A procedure where a thin, flexible tube with a camera (laryngoscope) is inserted into the nose or mouth to visualize the vocal cords.
Pulmonary Function Tests (PFTs): These tests measure lung capacity and airflow to rule out asthma or other respiratory conditions.
Video Stroboscopy: A specialized examination of the vocal cords using a strobe light to visualize their vibration.
pH Monitoring: If GERD is suspected, a test to measure the amount of acid in the esophagus.
Blood Tests: To rule out conditions such as hypocalcemia
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset of symptoms is usually sudden and dramatic.
Immediate: Sudden difficulty breathing, gasping, choking sensation.
Seconds to Minutes: Stridor, hoarseness, coughing, tightness in the throat, panic.
Following Episode: Voice may be strained or hoarse for a short period. Anxiety might persist due to the frightening nature of the event.
Important Considerations
Emergency Situations: Severe spasms can be life-threatening. Seek immediate medical attention if breathing becomes severely compromised or if there is bluish discoloration of the skin.
Coexisting Conditions: It's important to address any underlying medical conditions that might be contributing to the spasms, such as GERD, asthma, or anxiety.
Differential Diagnosis: Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) can mimic asthma, so it's important to differentiate between the two.
Psychological Impact: Vocal cord spasms can be frightening and can lead to anxiety or panic disorders. Therapy or counseling may be beneficial for managing these psychological effects.
Medication Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects of any medications prescribed to manage the condition.