Paradoxical Vocal Fold Movement (PVFM)

Healthy vocal cords open when you breathe. Someone who is affected by PVFM experiences episodes when the vocal cords close instead of opening, causing wheezing and breathlessness. The condition, which is sometimes mistaken for asthma, can be life threatening.

Treatment for PVFM is aimed at identifying the physical, behavioral, and psychological triggers for these events and eliminating them. Although medical interventions may be helpful, relaxation techniques, vocal exercises, and breath work can help the individual avoid these episodes and when they do occur, quickly restore normal breathing.