Understanding VCD / ILO

Vocal cord dysfunction, sometimes called inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO), happens when your vocal cords or the muscles around them tighten unexpectedly.

This can make it hard to breathe in and may cause noisy or difficult breathing for short periods. These episodes can sometimes feel very frightening and may mimic an asthma attack, a panic attack, or an anxiety attack.

Symptoms may include:

• Feeling like you can’t get enough air in

• Throat tightness or a choking sensation

• Noisy breathing, especially when inhaling

• Coughing, throat clearing or hoarseness

• Anxiety or panic during episodes

Even if your symptoms stop between episodes, the worry of the next one can be stressful. Coughing, throat irritation or voice change may trigger VCD or ILO episodes.

How We Can Help

At The Voice Therapy Clinic, we help you:

• Understand what triggers your episodes

• Learn techniques to control your vocal cords and breathe more easily

• Relax the throat and upper airway muscles

• Support your overall airway health and hydration

• Manage stress and anxiety that can make your symptoms worse

Most people see improvements in up to 4 sessions with regular practice, helping you maintain control even when symptom-free.

Our goal is to help you feel calmer, breathe easier and regain confidence in your voice and airway.