How Do You Treat Vocal Cord Dysfunction?
Vocal cord dysfunction is often grouped with speech pathologies, though it does not involve speech per se. The vocal chords, which sit at the top of the windpipe, usually open during respiration. In a VCD episode they contract instead, causing asthma-like symptoms. In other words, the person can’t breathe. To treat VCD, experts use a variety of strategies. Eliminate asthma as the cause of all symptoms. Asthma medicine does not work on VCD. If your prescription medication is not effective or only partially reduces symptoms, ask to be tested for vocal cord dysfunction. Watch for accompanying conditions that may also need treatment, including chronic sinus infection (characterized by chronic cough or throat clearing) and gastroesophageal (acid) reflux disease (GERD). Note down circumstances that trigger VCD (infection, cigarette smoke, a long episode of laughing or coughing, strenuous exercise and others). Set about eliminating as many of these as possible. Stop extraneous medications (un
