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  • With Mayo Clinic emeritus internist

    Edward C. Rosenow III, M.D.

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Question

Laryngospasm: What causes it?

What causes laryngospasm?

Answer

from Edward C. Rosenow III, M.D.

Laryngospasm is a brief spasm of the vocal cords that temporarily makes it difficult to speak or breathe. Often the cause can't be determined. But laryngospasm can be associated with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). Laryngospasm can occur when stomach juices are pushed up your throat so that they come in contact with your vocal cords.

Laryngospasm happens suddenly and causes great difficulty breathing through the upper airways in your voice box (larynx). Laryngospasm also makes it difficult to speak. Though laryngospasm can be frightening, your vocal cords eventually relax without causing serious problems.

There's no effective medication to relax the vocal cords more quickly. However, sitting down and trying to relax your whole body during an episode may speed recovery.

If GERD is the cause of laryngospasms, treatment of GERD may reduce the number and severity of episodes.

Next question
GERD: Can certain medications increase severity?
References
  1. Hicks M, et al. Vocal cord dysfunction/paradoxical vocal fold motion. Primary Care: Clinics in Office Practice. 2008;35:81.
  2. Poelmans J, et al. Extraoesophageal manifestations of gastro-oesophageal reflux. Gut. 2005;54:1492.
  3. Rosenow EC (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Oct. 13, 2009.

AN01215

Nov. 25, 2009

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