What is Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction (ILO) or Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD)

Whats is Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction?

Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO) or Vocal Fold Dysfunction the abnormal closure of the vocal folds during respiration, most commonly when breathing in, in response to a trigger. When the trigger is due to exercise, it is called Exercise Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction (EILO). It is often mistaken for Asthma or other illnesses related to respiratory conditions.

What are the symptoms of Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction?

The symptoms tend to vary between people. You may present have sudden breathlessness that comes on quickly which may be due to a certain trigger. You may have a wheeze on your in-breath. You may experience throat symptoms of discomfort and voice changes. There may also be a chronic cough, a sensation of swallowing difficulties and a choking sensation.

What are the causes of inducible laryngeal obstruction?

There any many causes that have been identified such as post-nasal drip, reflux, irritants and temperature changes (ILO). When it is triggered by exercises this is called EILO.

Who treats Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction?

Diagnosis is typically managed by a team. This team might include respiratory consultants, ENT, Physiotherapists, Speech and Language Therapists with a specialist interest in airways, Pulmonologists and Psychologists

How can a Speech Therapist help Induced Laryngeal Obstruction?

Clinical Specialist Speech Therapists play a crucial role in the management of Induced Laryngeal Obstruction. They can teach you rescue breathing strategies, throat and upper airway relaxation, throat care advice for a healthy larynx and behaviour change techniques.

We are Clinical Specialist Speech Therapists in Induced laryngeal Obstruction with a Specialist Interest in Airway Disorders.