What are Laryngeal Airway Disorders?
Not all breathing problems originate in the lungs. A surprising number of patients diagnosed with asthma or anxiety-related breathing difficulties actually have a laryngeal airway disorder — a condition affecting the voice box or the airway just below it. These conditions are frequently overlooked outside of specialty care, and many patients spend years on ineffective treatments before receiving the right diagnosis.
Subglottic stenosis is a narrowing of the airway just below the vocal cords, most commonly resulting from prolonged intubation, prior airway surgery, or autoimmune conditions. It can cause progressive shortness of breath, noisy breathing, and reduced exercise tolerance — symptoms that are easily confused with asthma.
Laryngospasm, EILO, and vocal cord dysfunction (VCD) are related conditions in which the vocal cords close inappropriately, partially or completely obstructing airflow. Episodes can be sudden, frightening, and difficult to distinguish from asthma or panic attacks — particularly because they often occur during exercise or times of stress.
Common Symptoms
- Shortness of breath or noisy breathing, particularly with exertion
- A high-pitched or squeaky sound when breathing in (stridor)
- Breathing difficulty that does not respond to asthma inhalers
- Episodes of sudden throat tightening or airway obstruction
- Chronic cough or throat clearing associated with breathing difficulty
Diagnosis & Treatment
Laryngeal airway disorders require the expertise of a specialist who understands both the anatomy and the functional behavior of the airway. Dr. Benjamin Rafii evaluates these conditions with a thorough history and flexible laryngoscopy, and when indicated, more advanced in-office or surgical assessment. Accurate diagnosis is the essential first step — because the right treatment depends entirely on identifying the right condition.
Treatment varies widely depending on the underlying diagnosis and may include voice therapy and breathing retraining, minimally invasive endoscopic procedures, laser surgery, or airway dilation. Dr. Rafii will outline the most appropriate path forward based on your specific findings.
Related Conditions: Chronic Cough & Throat Sensitivity | Hoarseness & Voice Disorders
Related Treatments: Endoscopic Treatment of Subglottic Stenosis | Vocal Cord Laser Surgery | Voice Therapy & Care Team Coordination
Related Services: Comprehensive Voice Evaluation | Vocal Cord & Voice Surgery
If you are experiencing unexplained breathing difficulties, Dr. Rafii and his team are here to help. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at The Laryngology & Voice Center of Beverly Hills — same- and next-day appointments are available.