At Better Speech, we understand how debilitating vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) can be and how it can affect your daily life, from speaking comfortably to breathing without restriction. Yes, we treat vocal cord dysfunction! Our experienced Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) are trained to provide specialized therapy for individuals struggling with this condition.
In this article, we’ll cover how Better Speech treats vocal cord dysfunction (VCD). Our expert Speech-Language Pathologists (SLPs) provide specialized online therapy to help you manage VCD symptoms from home. Keep reading to learn more and book your free 15-minute consultation.
In this article, we will discuss:
What is Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD)?
Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD), also known as paradoxical vocal fold movement disorder (PVFM), is a condition where the vocal cords involuntarily close during breathing, making it difficult to get enough air in or out. Unlike other respiratory conditions such as asthma, VCD is caused by abnormal movement of the vocal cords, which can lead to symptoms like wheezing, difficulty breathing, and voice changes.
People with VCD often experience tightness in the throat, shortness of breath, and a feeling of choking or gagging, especially during physical activities or high-stress situations. It's important to differentiate VCD from other respiratory issues, as its treatment typically involves speech therapy rather than medications commonly used for asthma or allergies.
Symptoms and Causes of Vocal Cord Dysfunction
The symptoms of vocal cord dysfunction can often mimic those of other respiratory conditions, making diagnosis tricky. However, VCD typically presents with the following symptoms:
Difficulty breathing, particularly during inhalation
Throat tightness or a choking sensation
Voice changes, such as hoarseness or strain
Coughing or frequent throat-clearing
Episodes triggered by exercise, stress, or irritants such as smoke or strong odors
The causes of VCD are not always clear but may include:
Stress and Anxiety: Emotional stress and anxiety can trigger or worsen symptoms of VCD.
Exercise: Physical activity, especially high-intensity workouts, can induce symptoms.
Environmental Factors: Irritants like smoke, strong odors, or pollution can aggravate VCD symptoms.
Neurological Factors: Miscommunication between the brain and vocal cords can lead to abnormal cord movement.
If left untreated, VCD can severely impact daily life, making it difficult to speak clearly, breathe comfortably, and engage in physical activities. Fortunately, speech therapy offers an effective treatment solution.
Start your journey to better vocal health and communication now!
Country-Specific Licensure Requirements
While we offer international services, it’s important to be aware of country-specific licensure requirements that may impact whether we can offer therapy in certain regions. Some countries have strict regulations regarding who can provide speech therapy services, and it may be necessary for an SLP to be licensed in that particular country before beginning treatment.
At Better Speech, we take compliance seriously. Before starting therapy with a client outside the USA, we verify that our SLP is properly licensed according to the regulations of that country. If your country has specific requirements, we will ensure that these are met before you begin your therapy journey.
For example, some regions in Europe and Asia may have different requirements for telehealth services, while others may fully accept international therapy providers. It’s always a good idea to check local regulations or consult with us directly to confirm whether our services are available in your country.
How Speech Therapy Helps Manage VCD
Speech therapy is one of the most effective treatments for managing vocal cord dysfunction. At Better Speech, our specialized SLPs work closely with clients to help retrain the vocal cords and teach proper breathing techniques to prevent VCD episodes. Through targeted exercises and relaxation techniques, our therapists guide clients to regain control over their vocal cords and breathing patterns.
Key components of our VCD therapy include:
Breathing Exercises: Learning how to regulate airflow and reduce strain on the vocal cords.
Relaxation Techniques: Managing stress and anxiety, which are often triggers for VCD episodes.
Vocal Cord Training: Strengthening the vocal cords and improving their coordination during breathing and speaking.
Posture and Body Mechanics: Teaching clients how to use proper body alignment to support healthy vocal cord function.
Through consistent therapy, individuals can experience significant relief from symptoms, improving both their respiratory function and overall quality of life.
Treatment Methods for VCD at Better Speech
At Better Speech, we offer a comprehensive approach to treating vocal cord dysfunction. Our licensed and experienced Speech-Language Pathologists use evidence-based techniques to help clients manage and overcome VCD symptoms. The treatment process generally involves:
Initial Evaluation: During the initial consultation, our SLPs assess your symptoms and medical history to determine the severity of your VCD and the best treatment approach.
Customized Treatment Plan: Each client receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their specific needs. This includes exercises to strengthen the vocal cords, relaxation techniques to reduce stress, and breathing exercises to improve airflow.
Regular Therapy Sessions: Clients attend online speech therapy sessions with their SLP, working on exercises and techniques designed to address their unique challenges. Sessions are interactive and provide real-time feedback to ensure progress.
Tracking Progress: Throughout the course of therapy, your SLP will track your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed. This ensures that you are continually improving and learning new strategies to manage VCD.
Post-Therapy Support: Once therapy is complete, we provide resources and ongoing support to help you maintain your progress and prevent the recurrence of VCD symptoms.
How to Get Started with Better Speech for Vocal Cord Dysfunction
If you or a loved one is struggling with vocal cord dysfunction, Better Speech is here to help. Getting started with our online speech therapy services is easy and convenient:
Book a Free Consultation: Schedule a free 15-minute consultation with one of our expert SLPs to discuss your concerns and determine if Better Speech is the right fit for you. During this consultation, our therapist will assess your symptoms and provide you with an overview of the treatment process.
Create a Personalized Plan: Once you've had your consultation, we'll create a customized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and goals. This plan will outline the steps we'll take to address your VCD and improve your vocal cord function.
Begin Therapy Sessions: After your plan is in place, you'll start your online therapy sessions with your SLP. Our sessions are conducted through a user-friendly online platform, making it easy to connect with your therapist from anywhere.
Track Your Progress: Throughout your therapy journey, we'll monitor your progress and make adjustments to your treatment plan as needed to ensure you're achieving the best possible results.
Ongoing Support: Once your therapy is complete, we'll provide you with resources and exercises to maintain your vocal cord health and prevent future VCD episodes.
To get started today, simply book your free consultation and begin your journey toward better speech and breathing control.
How Better Speech Can Support You
If you or your child is experiencing difficulty communicating or managing vocal cord dysfunction, it’s essential to consult with an experienced Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP) as soon as possible. At Better Speech, we go beyond standard speech therapy services to ensure that every client receives personalized care designed to meet their unique needs.
Our team of over 250 licensed SLPs is dedicated to helping individuals of all ages develop strong communication skills and manage conditions like VCD. We offer convenient, online therapy sessions that are tailored to your schedule and lifestyle, making high-quality speech therapy more accessible than ever.
Whether you’re concerned about your child’s speech development or looking for effective treatment for vocal cord dysfunction, we’re here to help. To get started, simply fill out our quick form and get paired with a specialist today. Start your journey to recovery by scheduling a free consultation with our expert team! or simply fill out a quick form on our website, and we’ll match you with a specialist who is licensed to work with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is vocal cord dysfunction (VCD)?
Vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) is a condition where the vocal cords close abnormally during breathing, leading to symptoms such as difficulty breathing, throat tightness, and voice changes.
Can Better Speech treat vocal cord dysfunction?
How does speech therapy help with VCD?
Do I need a referral to get started?
How do I book a consultation with Better Speech?
About the Author
Aycen Zambuto
I’m a seasoned educator in speech therapy with over six years of experience helping people navigate challenges in communication. Throughout this time, I’ve found joy in guiding individuals through a variety of therapeutic journeys, from toddlers with apraxia to seniors with dysphonia.
I’m passionate about demystifying this complex world of speech therapy and helping readers around the globe achieve clear and effective communication. When I’m not writing about speech, you’ll often find me reading, traveling or spending time with friends and family.
