vocal-cord-disfunction-therapy

Managing Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD) with Speech Therapy

ByTherapeutic Potentials

Breathing is something most of us take for granted—until it becomes difficult. For people with Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD), throat tightness and trouble breathing can be extremely overwhelming. These symptoms can even feel like asthma. 

At Therapeutic Potentials, Inc., we provide specialized speech therapy for adults. Our methods are effective and based on evidence. We help manage VCD, restore normal breathing patterns, and reduce how often episodes happen.

If you have breathing problems that you can’t explain or have VCD, think about adding speech therapy to your treatment plan.

What Is Vocal Cord Dysfunction?

Vocal Cord Dysfunction is a condition. In this condition, the vocal cords close by themselves when you breathe in. This blocks airflow and makes it hard to breathe. Unlike asthma, which affects the lungs, VCD involves the improper movement of the vocal cords at the level of the larynx (voice box).

Common Symptoms of VCD:

  • Difficulty breathing in (especially during exercise or stress)
  • A tight or choking sensation in the throat
  • Chronic coughing or throat clearing
  • Hoarseness or voice changes
  • Stridor (a high-pitched wheezing sound during inhalation)
  • Sensation of not getting enough air despite normal oxygen levels

These symptoms can be frightening and are often mistaken for asthma, leading to misdiagnosis and ineffective treatment. Luckily, trained speech-language pathologists (SLPs) can help people with voice and breathing disorders like VCD.

Learn more about our adult speech therapy services at Therapeutic Potentials.

VCD vs. Asthma: What’s the Difference?

While asthma and VCD may feel similar, doctors manage them differently. Asthma is a chronic inflammation of the airways treated with inhalers and medication. Behavioral therapy and breathing training from a qualified speech therapist best treat the condition.

Some people with asthma and VCD still have breathing problems. This can happen even when their asthma is under control. The reason is that they have not treated their vocal cord function.

How Speech Therapy Helps Manage VCD

Speech therapy is the gold standard for treating Vocal Cord Dysfunction. At Therapeutic Potentials, we provide a special method. This helps clients learn to control their vocal cords. They can reduce throat tension and regain confidence in their breathing.

Here’s what treatment typically involves:

1. Breathing Techniques

Your therapist will teach specific breathing exercises to:

  • Train the vocal cords to remain open during inhalation
  • Promote relaxed belly breathing
  • Reduce reliance on shallow, chest-based breathing
  • Interrupt VCD episodes when they occur

These techniques are practiced and reinforced in different positions and environments (e.g., during exercise or when under stress).

2. Voice and Throat Relaxation Exercises

Since many individuals with VCD also experience throat tension or vocal strain, therapy may include exercises to:

  • Reduce tension in the laryngeal area
  • Improve overall vocal hygiene
  • Support a natural, relaxed voice
  • Eliminate chronic coughing or throat clearing

3. Education and Symptom Awareness

Understanding your triggers and how VCD works is essential. Therapy will help you:

  • Identify situations that provoke symptoms (e.g., exercise, irritants, emotional stress)
  • Use breathing exercises proactively before symptoms escalate
  • Distin VCD from other conditions like asthma or allergies
  • Build confidence in managing your episodes

Curious about how we approach therapy? Explore how to get started with an initial evaluation.

Common VCD Triggers

Part of speech therapy is helping clients recognize and manage personal triggers. While these vary from person to person, common VCD triggers include:

  • Physical exertion or sports
  • Exposure to fumes, perfumes, or smoke
  • Environmental allergens
  • Strong emotions like anxiety or anger
  • Reflux (GERD)
  • Cold air or rapid temperature changes

At Therapeutic Potentials, we create personalized treatment plans. This means your therapy will focus on your specific triggers, symptoms, and goals.

Real-Life Benefits of VCD Therapy

The goal of speech therapy is to empower clients with tools they can use in daily life. With regular sessions and home practice, clients often experience:

  • Fewer and less severe VCD episodes
  • Greater control over breathing during stress or activity
  • Improved ability to speak and exercise without discomfort
  • Less fear and anxiety surrounding symptoms
  • Better quality of life overall

Whether you are an athlete, a teacher, or just trying to control your breath, VCD treatment can help. Speech therapy offers lasting relief.

A Client-Centered, Collaborative Approach

At Therapeutic Potentials, we are committed to providing compassionate, personalized care. Our skilled therapists know how to treat voice and breathing problems. They will help you at every step of your VCD recovery.

We collaborate with other healthcare providers—including pulmonologists, ENTs, and allergists—when needed to ensure a comprehensive treatment plan. We help clients who have just received a diagnosis.

Meet the team and learn what makes us different. Visit our About Us page

What to Expect from Your First Visit

Your journey begins with a thorough evaluation by one of our licensed speech-language pathologists. We will assess your symptoms, vocal cord function, breathing patterns, and lifestyle to create a treatment plan that aligns with your needs.

We then set up regular therapy sessions, usually once or twice a week. In these sessions, we practice the skills needed to manage VCD. You track progress carefully and adjust goals as you improve.

Take the first step toward better breathing. Schedule your appointment today.

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