Medical Glossary

The movement of vocal cords toward the midline of the larynx. In laryngospasm, involuntary adduction causes the vocal cords to close tightly, blocking airflow.

Small, pyramid-shaped cartilages in the larynx that attach to the vocal cords. They play a crucial role in vocal cord movement and are often involved in laryngospasm episodes.

The inhalation of foreign material (such as food, liquid, or stomach contents) into the respiratory tract. Can trigger laryngospasm as a protective reflex.

A neurotoxin that can be injected into laryngeal muscles to reduce muscle spasms. Used as a treatment option for severe, recurrent laryngospasm cases.

A diagnostic procedure using a flexible tube with a camera to examine the airways. May be used to evaluate the larynx and rule out other conditions.

A muscle that helps control vocal cord tension and pitch. Dysfunction of this muscle can contribute to voice disorders and laryngeal spasms.

A bluish discoloration of the skin and mucous membranes due to lack of oxygen. May occur during severe laryngospasm episodes when breathing is significantly impaired.

Difficulty producing voice sounds or changes in voice quality. Can be associated with laryngospasm and other laryngeal disorders.

Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath. A common symptom during laryngospasm episodes when the vocal cords close and restrict airflow.

A flap of cartilage that covers the windpipe during swallowing to prevent food from entering the lungs. Inflammation or irritation can trigger laryngospasm.

A test that measures electrical activity in muscles. Laryngeal EMG can help diagnose muscle dysfunction and guide treatment for laryngospasm.

A medical procedure to examine the larynx using a laryngoscope. Essential for diagnosing laryngospasm and evaluating vocal cord function.

An involuntary spasm of the vocal cords that causes them to close tightly, temporarily blocking the airway and making breathing difficult or impossible.

The voice box, located in the neck between the pharynx and trachea. Contains the vocal cords and is the primary site where laryngospasm occurs.

A specialized examination technique using strobe light to visualize vocal cord vibration patterns. Helps assess vocal cord function and detect abnormalities.

A high-pitched breathing sound caused by turbulent airflow through narrowed airways. May occur during or after laryngospasm episodes.

Two bands of muscle tissue in the larynx that vibrate to produce voice. In laryngospasm, these cords spasm and close involuntarily, blocking airflow.

The tenth cranial nerve that controls many functions including laryngeal muscles. Dysfunction or irritation of this nerve can contribute to laryngospasm.