Understand the difference between Vocal Cord Dysfunction-Exercise Induced Laryngeal Obstruction and Asthma

VCD-EILO SYMPTOMS

• Breathing sounds high pitched, grating
• Struggle with inhalation
• Tightness in the throat
• Rapid onset, Rapid recovery

TREATMENT OPTIONS

• See a speech language pathologist
• Adjust breathing from mouth breathing to nasal or shared breathing
• Practice diaphragmatic breathing and relaxation exercise
• Practice breathing-recovery exercises to stop attack from turning into full episode

ASTHMA SYMPTOMS

• Breathing sounds like wheezing
• Struggle with exhalation
• Tightness in the chest
• Gradual onset, Gradual recovery

TREATMENT OPTIONS

• See a physician, allergist or immunologist
• Take medication – such as an inhaler or pills – as prescribed
• Learn what your triggers are – exercise, dirty air, allergies, etc. – and avoid them
• Know the early signs of an attack and stop exercising before symptoms progress

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