Background: Vocal cord dysfunction VCD or paradoxical vocal-fold motion PVFM is a functional disorder of the vocal cords that requires multidisciplinary treatment. Besides relaxation techniques, the use of psychological interventions can help treat the underlying psychological co-morbidities. The date range for our search is from June to June We included randomized controlled trials, case-control studies, retrospective chart reviews, prospective case series, and individual case reports. Results: Most reported studies are small case series or individual case reports that have described the use of interventions such as psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, use of anti-anxiety and anti-depressant medications, and hypnotherapy in conjunction with breathing exercises taught by speech therapists for symptomatic relief.

At Duke Voice Care, you'll find experts in diagnosing and treating vocal cord dysfunction who also understand the difficulties of living with this disorder. Our Durham and Raleigh clinic locations offer customized treatments and therapy to help you find relief. During a VCD attack, your vocal cords close involuntarily when they should be open as you inhale, and you may feel as if you are choking or suffocating. Sometimes, sounds may come from your throat when you have trouble inhaling. You may also have a chronic cough. Some people with irritable larynx syndrome don't have difficulty breathing but only have a chronic cough, which can be debilitating in its own right.

Metrics details. Vocal cord dysfunction VCD is a term that refers to inappropriate adduction of the vocal cords during inhalation and sometimes exhalation. It is a functional disorder that serves as an important mimicker of asthma. Vocal cord dysfunction can be difficult to treat as the condition is often underappreciated and misdiagnosed in clinical practice.

With VCD, instead of your vocal cords opening up when you breathe in and out, your vocal cords close. This closing of your vocal cords makes it harder to get air into or out of your lungs. An attack of VCD can be sudden and may be severe.