Overview and Facts about Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM)
Paradoxical vocal fold movement (PVFM) is a type of breathing disorder in which your vocal cords close when they should remain open, such as when you speak, sing, or take a breath.
PVFM, which is also known as vocal fold dysfunction, is often confused with asthma, but the two conditions are very different.
Asthma affects the bronchial tubes within the lungs, while PVFM affects the vocal cords in the throat. Both conditions may have similar symptoms, but their treatment strategies differ.
Signs and Symptoms of Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM)
Symptoms of PVFM may include:
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Coughing, wheezing or trouble breathing
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Hoarseness or voice changes
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Lightheadedness or noisy breathing
People with PVFM often feel as if they're trying to breathe through a straw. During a PVFM episode, you may struggle to get enough air.
Many people report feeling dizzy, faint or panicked when their PVFM symptoms flare up.
PVFM symptoms can be mild or severe, and your symptoms may come and go. Most people with PVFM don't experience symptoms all the time. Instead, they may have PVFM "attacks" every now and then.
Causes and Risk Factors of Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM)
The cause of PVFM is currently unknown, but most people with PVFM are able to identify triggers that make their symptoms worse. Common triggers can include:
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Breathing cold, dry air
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Lying flat on your back
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Smoke or pollution
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Stress or exercise
Tests and Diagnosis of Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM)
PVFM can be challenging to diagnose. The symptoms of this condition often mimic those of other diseases. Many people with PVFM are first diagnosed with asthma, allergies or other lung conditions.
To diagnose PVFM, your doctor will need to examine your vocal cords. Your doctor may recommend an endoscopy procedure for this purpose.
During an endoscopy, your doctor threads a thin, flexible camera through your nose or mouth. They then directs the camera into your vocal box and watches how your vocal cords move.
Not every doctor is able to diagnose or treat PVFM. Your doctor may refer you to an otolaryngology specialist (ENT doctor) or a speech-language pathologist. These medical professionals specialize in treating conditions affecting the throat.
Treatment and Care for Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM)
Allergies, acid reflux and mental health conditions can often worsen PVFM symptoms. If you have PVFM, your doctor will focus on helping you manage these other conditions.
Your doctor may also refer you to a therapist or psychiatrist for further care. These medical providers can offer extra help in managing feelings of stress or anxiety.
Respiratory Retraining: The treatment helps patients control their breathing to minimize or prevent attacks. The treatment focuses on retraining the breathing cycle and reduce the effort associated with respiration. A speech-language pathologist can teach you breathing exercises and provide voice therapy. This type of treatment can help you relax your throat muscles and regulate your breathing. Treatment can also help you identify triggers and avoid breathing problems in the future.
In more severe cases, botox injections into the vocal cords can lessen the frequency and severity of episodes.
