Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD): Triggers

Possible triggers of vocal cord dysfunction are often similar to asthma triggers.

Triggers may include:

• upper respiratory infections;
• indoor air pollution; 
• strong chemical fumes and odors;
• cigarette smoke;
• singing;
• laughing;
• emotional upset;
• post-nasal drip;
• gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD);
• laryngopharyngeal reflux (or, "silent reflux");
• cold air; and
• exercise.

Sometimes the trigger is not known.

This information has been approved by Marcy Hicks, MS, CCC-SLP (July 2006).