PURPOSE: To provide an overview of the pathophysiology, steps in making a diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment methods for vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) in young athletes. DATA SOURCES: Review of published literature about VCD and exercise-induced asthma (EIA) and a case study. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical presentation of VCD is often confusing. A young athlete who is having difficulty "catching his breath" may have more than EIA. Young athletes who have been previously diagnosed with EIA may actually have VCD. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The ability to correctly differentiate VCD from other causes of respiratory distress can lead to accurate interventions, save precious time in an acute situation, and promote long-term control of this condition.
PURPOSE: To provide an overview of the pathophysiology, steps in making a diagnosis, differential diagnosis, and treatment methods for vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) in young athletes. DATA SOURCES: Review of published literature about VCD and exercise-induced asthma (EIA) and a case study. CONCLUSIONS: The clinical presentation of VCD is often confusing. A young athlete who is having difficulty "catching his breath" may have more than EIA. Young athletes who have been previously diagnosed with EIA may actually have VCD. IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE: The ability to correctly differentiate VCD from other causes of respiratory distress can lead to accurate interventions, save precious time in an acute situation, and promote long-term control of this condition.