EILO: Lifestyle Management

Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD) can be treated. Patients don't have to live with the frustration or anxiety of "not being able to get a good breath", chronic coughing, frequent throat clearing or intermittent hoarseness/wheezing.

A speech-language pathologist can provide treatment for VCD. 

Initial Consult

A speech-language pathologist will:

• Assist in the identification of triggers
• Provide education on anatomy and function of the throat, larynx and vocal cords
• Provide education on techniques to prevent and eliminate VCD and regain control
• Provide techniques to minimize abusive behaviors such as chronic coughing and frequent throat clearing

Follow-up Visits

A speech-language pathologist will:

• Review and reinforce techniques
• Provide support and encouragement for consistent application

Irritant Challenge 

A speech-language pathologist will:

• Provide education/support for implementation of techniques to de-escalate VCD when exposed to triggers

Exercise Challenge  

A speech-language pathologist will:

• Provide education/support for implementation of techniques to de-escalate VCD when triggered with exercise
• Common challenges include walking, running, sprinting, biking, skating, swimming, dancing/cheering, wrestling, basketball and baseball