Laryngospasm: Symptoms, Causes, Treatment

What are the symptoms of a laryngospasm?

A laryngospasm is a sudden, involuntary spasm of the vocal cords, which can cause a range of symptoms. The symptoms of a laryngospasm may include:

1. Sudden, severe hoarseness: A laryngospasm can cause the vocal cords to close suddenly, leading to a sudden and severe hoarseness or loss of voice.
2. Difficulty breathing: The spasm can also cause difficulty breathing, as the airway is partially blocked by the closed vocal cords.
3. Coughing: Coughing may occur as a result of the irritation and inflammation caused by the spasm.
4. Stridor: Stridor is a high-pitched sound that occurs when air passes through a narrowed airway.
5. Dyspnea: Dyspnea is a feeling of shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
6. Tightness in the throat: A laryngospasm can cause a feeling of tightness or constriction in the throat.
7. Panic or anxiety: The sudden and unexpected onset of a laryngospasm can cause panic or anxiety in some individuals.
8. Loss of consciousness: In severe cases, a laryngospasm can lead to loss of consciousness due to lack of oxygen.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are severe or persistent.

What are the causes of a laryngospasm?

A laryngospasm is a sudden, involuntary spasm of the vocal cords, which can be caused by a variety of factors. Some common causes of a laryngospasm include:

1. Acid reflux: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or laryngopharyngeal reflux (LPR) can cause acid to flow up into the larynx, leading to inflammation and spasms.
2. Allergies: Allergies to substances like pollen, dust, or mold can trigger a laryngospasm.
3. Infections: Respiratory infections like bronchitis, pneumonia, or tonsillitis can cause a laryngospasm.
4. Inhalation of foreign objects: Inhaling foreign objects like food, liquids, or other substances can trigger a laryngospasm.
5. Anatomical abnormalities: Abnormalities in the shape or size of the airway, such as a narrowed epiglottis or vocal cord nodules, can increase the risk of a laryngospasm.
6. Vocal cord trauma: Trauma to the vocal cords, such as from shouting or screaming, can cause a laryngospasm.
7. Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy, menopause, or puberty can affect the vocal cords and increase the risk of a laryngospasm.
8. Neurological disorders: Neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or dystonia can affect the nerves that control the vocal cords and cause a laryngospasm.
9. Psychological factors: Stress, anxiety, or panic attacks can trigger a laryngospasm.
10. Medications: Certain medications like beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, and antihistamines can cause a laryngospasm as a side effect.

It’s essential to seek medical attention if you experience any symptoms of a laryngospasm.

How is the diagnosis of a laryngospasm made?

The diagnosis of a laryngospasm is typically made through a combination of a physical examination, medical history, and diagnostic tests. Here are the steps involved in diagnosing a laryngospasm:

1. Physical examination: A healthcare provider will perform a physical examination to assess the patient’s throat, vocal cords, and airway.
2. Medical history: The healthcare provider will ask questions about the patient’s medical history, including any previous respiratory or ear, nose, and throat (ENT) problems.
3. Laryngoscopy: A laryngoscopy may be performed to visualize the vocal cords and airway.
4. Flexible bronchoscopy: A flexible bronchoscope may be used to visualize the airway and assess for any abnormalities.
5. Stroboscopy: Stroboscopy may be used to evaluate the vocal cord vibration and movement.
6. Pulse oximetry: Pulse oximetry may be used to measure the patient’s oxygen saturation levels.
7. Chest X-ray: A chest X-ray may be ordered to rule out other respiratory conditions.
8. Blood tests: Blood tests may be ordered to rule out other conditions that may be causing symptoms.
9. Laryngeal electromyography (EMG): Laryngeal EMG may be used to evaluate the electrical activity of the vocal cords.

In some cases, additional tests such as a swallow study or a videofluoroscopic swallowing study may be ordered to assess the patient’s swallowing function.

It’s essential to consult with an ear, nose, and throat (ENT) specialist or a pulmonologist for proper evaluation and diagnosis of a laryngospasm.

What is the treatment for a laryngospasm?

The treatment for a laryngospasm depends on the underlying cause and severity of the condition. Here are some common treatments for a laryngospasm:

1. Oxygen therapy: Supplemental oxygen may be provided to help increase oxygen levels in the blood.
2. Airway management: Intubation or tracheotomy may be necessary to establish a secure airway and prevent respiratory distress.
3. Bronchodilators: Medications such as bronchodilators may be used to help relax the airway and improve breathing.
4. Inhalers: Inhalers such as beta-2 agonists or anticholinergics may be used to help relax the airway.
5. Steroids: Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling in the airway.
6. Antihistamines: Antihistamines may be used to treat allergic reactions that may be contributing to the laryngospasm.
7. Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation and swelling in the airway.
8. Acid reducers: Medications such as ranitidine or famotidine may be prescribed to reduce acid reflux and inflammation in the airway.
9. Vocal cord exercises: Vocal cord exercises may be recommended to help improve vocal cord function and reduce spasms.
10. Speech therapy: Speech therapy may be recommended to help improve communication skills and reduce vocal cord strain.

It’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment of a laryngospasm.