Differentiating Throat Symptoms in Inducible Laryngeal Obstruction From Anaphylaxis—Information for Patients and Health Care Professionals

Abstract

Inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO), also referred to as vocal cord dysfunction, describes inappropriate, transient, and reversible closure of the larynx due to an external trigger.1 It is often associated with throat tightness, cough, dysphonia, dyspnea, and inspiratory wheeze. Although ILO is not life-threatening, the symptoms can often mimic conditions that are, such as asthma or allergy (specifically anaphylaxis with throat-associated symptoms). This can make diagnostic and treatment decisions challenging, particularly in an acute setting.