Voice Resonance Week 6: Paradoxical VF Movement

What is paradoxical VF movement? 

Inappropriate adduction of the VF during inhalation. 

What are the 2 physiological variants?

1. Adduction of true VF and false VF throughout the breathing cycle.

2. Adduction during deep inspiration and slight abduction on expiration.

Why is this variant opposite of what should be occurring? Adduction during deep inspiration and slight abduction on expiration.

The VF are closed during inspiration when they are supposed to be open. And VF are open when they are supposed to be closed for voicing.

Why is paradoxical VF movement common in athletes? 

Because they are breathing very deeply/had, causing more sensitivity of the VF. 

What is the etiology of paradoxical VF movement?

• Coexistent with asthma

• Precipitated by emotional events

• Occurs with or without organic conditions

Signs and symptoms of paradoxical VF movement:

• Stridor/wheezing

• Chronic cough

• Shortness of breath

• Breathing difficulty

• Sensation of throat being closed

Contributors of PVFM:

• Reflux 

• Exercise

• Emotional stress

• Air pollution/smoke

• Singing/talking

Why is a diagnosis of PVFM difficult?

The symptoms vary and episodes may be unpredictable.

How do you diagnose PVFM?

• Thorough history 

• Visualization of VF to see incorrect closure 

• Observe muscles in neck, chest, stomach when breathing