Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD)

VCD can cause difficulty breathing. Many with VCD are diagnosed with asthma, however, VCD is not asthma. It is a disorder that affects how and when vocal folds move. Symptoms may include:

• Coughing

• Rough-sounding voice

• Difficulty breathing air in

• Noisy breathing

• A feeling of tightness in the throat

• Lightheadedness

• Sudden loss of voice

Causes of PVFM

The exact cause of PVFM is still unknown, however research indicates that it may be triggered by:

• Acid reflux

• Exercise

• Breathing in cold air

• Prolonged speaking

• Emotional stress

• Smoke

• Pollen

At Garden State Speech Therapy, we recognize that the journey to vocal well-being extends beyond the realm of speech therapy. We advocate for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to care, working seamlessly with our patient's broader healthcare team. Our multidisciplinary collaboration includes partnering with:

• Allergists

• Pulmonologists

• Otolaryngologists (ear, nose, and throat doctors)

• Gastroenterologists

• Neurologists

• Psychologists

• Coaches (if you or a loved one is an athlete)

This teamwork allows us to address the diverse aspects of vocal cord dysfunction, considering potential contributing factors from various medical perspectives.

This collaborative approach brings a wealth of benefits to our patients. By fostering open communication and shared insights among specialists, we can gain a deeper understanding of the intricate interplay between physiological, environmental, and psychological factors contributing to vocal cord dysfunction. For example, an allergist may identify underlying allergic triggers, a pulmonologist can assess respiratory function, and a psychologist can address stress-related factors that may impact vocal health. Such a comprehensive evaluation ensures that our therapy plans are not only targeted but also holistic, addressing the root causes of vocal cord dysfunction and optimizing the effectiveness of our interventions.

Moreover, this collaborative model enables us to provide more informed recommendations and facilitate a smoother coordination of care. By working closely with a patient's care team, we can tailor our speech therapy interventions to complement ongoing medical treatments and vice versa. This synergy not only enhances the overall efficacy of the treatment but also empowers our patients with a more comprehensive and integrated approach to their health and well-being. The shared knowledge and expertise of the multidisciplinary team contribute to a more thorough understanding of the patient's condition, enabling us to adapt and refine our therapy strategies as needed.

We believe that the best outcomes are achieved when healthcare professionals collaborate, each bringing their unique expertise to the table. This multidisciplinary approach reflects our commitment to providing holistic care that extends beyond the confines of speech therapy, creating a pathway for our patients to achieve lasting vocal health and overall well-being.

If you suspect you or a loved one may have VCD, you should schedule an appointment with a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Once a doctor makes a diagnosis of VCD/PVFM, speech therapy services may be recommended as an effective and evidence-based treatment for this disorder.

Speech therapy services are often the first and most effective treatment for VCD. Speech therapy can help you or your loved one “re-train” the muscles surrounding the vocal cords to increase the ability to control them, therefore eliminating symptoms of VCD and enhancing quality of life. For many individuals, this disorder can cause throat strain during and after episodes. If this occurs, the voice can become “strained” or hoarse, even after an episode has subsided. A speech-language pathologist can guide you or your loved one through vocal exercises to improve breathing, reduce throat strain, and find your optimal pitch and volume for a strong, healthy voice. Improving the quality of the voice will not only help you or your loved one speak more easily and clearly, but it can reduce throat irritation and shortness of breath.

Expertise and Experience: Our team comprises licensed and experienced speech-language pathologists with a proven track record of success in providing effective treatment for adult voice disorders

Client-Centered Care: We prioritize your individual needs, ensuring that our treatment plans are tailored to address your specific challenges and goals.

Cutting-Edge Techniques: We stay informed of the latest advancements in research relating to the assessment and treatment of voice disorders, incorporating evidence-based practices to deliver the most effective interventions.

Supportive Environment: Garden State Speech Therapy is committed to creating a supportive and encouraging environment where you can feel comfortable and motivated throughout your therapy journey.

Flexible Scheduling: We understand the demands of daily life. Our practice offers flexible scheduling options to accommodate your busy lifestyle.

Progress Tracking: We provide regular assessments and progress tracking to celebrate achievements and adjust treatment plans as needed.