VCD and Asthma Symptoms
With Vocal Cord Dysfunction, sufferers may have a cough and wheezing and difficulty in breathing; and they may feel they have a tightness in their throat or they may find their voice goes hoarse. These symptoms are very similar to those of asthma and both can be triggered by such things as colds or viruses, breathing in lung irritants, such as smoke or even exercising. Reflux from the stomach (GERD) can also be a trigger.
An Allergy Or Not?
Unlike asthma, however, VCD is NOT an allergy nor an allergic response and the treatments for both are very different. They are also different in that asthma sufferers have more difficulty breathing out than in, whereas VCD suffers have more difficulty on the in breath. Also, the allergic response of asthma means the bronchial tubes constrict (tighten), whereas it is the muscles in the vocal cords that tighten with VCD. VCD can also result from paralysis of one (unilateral paralysis) or both (bilateral paralysis) of the vocal cords.
It is possible to suffer from both simultaneously and in this case, it’s important to see a specialist who has experience with these types of complex situations.
Treatment for the allergic type reactions in Asthma may include the use of an inhaler to expand (dilate) the bronchial tubes, whereas treatment for VCD may include relaxation techniques and muscle control exercises for the throat muscles.