Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD): Overview

In 1983, doctors described a condition that may be confused with asthma. This condition is called vocal cord dysfunction, or VCD. People with VCD will report asthma-like symptoms to their doctors.

To understand VCD, it is helpful to understand how the vocal cords function. The vocal cords are located at the top of the windpipe (trachea) and vibrate from exhaled air to produce noise and voice. Breathing in and out causes the vocal cords to open allowing air to flow through the windpipe (trachea). However, with vocal cord dysfunction, the vocal cords close together, or constrict, during one or both parts of the breathing cycle. This leaves only a small opening for air to flow through the windpipe and causes asthma-like symptoms.

This information has been apporved by Marcy Hicks, M.S., CCC-SLP (July 2006).