Asthma is sometimes misdiagnosed as Vocal Cord Dysfunction

It has been reported that some patients have been misdiagnosed with Vocal Cord Dysfunction, when in fact the correct diagnosis in their specific case was Asthma.

Asthma is a disease characterised by inflammation in the lungs and airways as a response to external triggers. Asthma can develop at childhood or during adulthood. Childhood asthma might resolve when the child grows up. Asthma is diagnosed mainly by a spirometry test in which airflow before and after Salbutamol is administered. If lung performance is improved by Salbutamol, this is a strong indication of Asthma. Asthma patients usually take a preventor medication/puffer for daily use and emergency puffer for attacks. Oral steroids are given in acute flare ups to help alleviate symptoms.

Always consult your doctor or health professional, and do not self diagnose.

Symptoms can include:

Chest tightness, shortness of breath, difficulty talking, coughing, anxiousness, panic, fatigue, chest pain, rapid breathing, frequent infections, trouble sleeping

Symptoms are a guideline only and may apply to either the diagnosis or the reported misdiagnosis, or both. Consult your specialist for further information.

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