What is Irritable Larynx (IL)?
Hyperkinetic laryngeal dysfunction resulting from a variety of specific causes and is a response to a definitive triggering stimulus that be may internal or external
Causes of IL
- Viral infection in CNS
- Damaged sensory nerves ‘regrow’ and branch in an abnormal manner
- Emotional states and defense reactions (PAG)
- Asthma-like upper airway reactions
Who does IL affect?
- 85% are female w/ average age 50
* 21% on leave or disability due to ILS
Dominant symptom of IL
50% - laryngospasm
other IL symptoms
o chronic cough 13%, dysphonia 9% , of those w/ laryngospasm, 50% reported MTD,
o 42% chronic cough and 11% globus sensation
o 75% present w/ extralaryngeal muscle tension
most common triggers of IL
airborne irritants, especially perfumes;
reflux and postural changes resulting in reflux;
voice use;
exercise ;
emotional stressorshow is IL treated
ILS treatment should focus n a comprehensive approach to minimize disability, reduce distress, improve general health and reduce the use of medical resources. These goals are generally addressed at three primary levels of treatment objectives.
Level 1- Minimize sensory stimuli & minimize exposure
Level 2 - Reprogram maladaptive responses by
decr. muscle tension, utilizing pursed lip breathing
Level 3 – Reprogram CNS via motor relearning and centrally active medications
What is PDVFM?
- Paradoxical VF dysfunction is a debilitating disorder that results in VF closure during inhalation.
- Upper airway disorder that results in episodes of partial to complete VF adduction, primarily during inhalation
- Disorder of laryngeal airway protection that can be remediated via behavioral intervention
- Is not a disorder of vocal quality
- Can occur while awake or asleep but can also be triggered by exercise
- Can start suddenly or gradually
- Often misdiagnosed as asthma
How is PDVFM treated
It is remediable via behavioral intervention.
