Relationship between Laryngeal Disorders and Respiratory Function in Professional Road Cyclists

Abstract

Objective: Engaging in outdoor cycling, particularly within cold and arid environments, frequently precipitates dryness in the laryngeal mucosa and induces various supraglottic disorders. Such conditions hold the potential to detrimentally impact respiratory system efficiency. This study principally sought to elucidate the influence of supraglottic and upper airway disorders on the respiratory capacities of road cyclist. Methods and Materials: This investigation encompassed seventy-two professional and elite road cyclists, comprising 22 females and 50 males, with an average age of 22 years and a Body Mass Index (BMI) of 21.95(±0.02) kg/m². Utilizing stroboscopic examinations, supraglottic conditions including Sicca, Tension, Edema, and Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease were assessed. Concurrently, respiratory capacity was evaluated through spirometric tests, encompassing Forced Vital Capacity [FVC], Forced Expiratory Volume in the first second [FEV1], Tidal Volume [VT], Maximum Vital Capacity [VC MAX], Mean Mid-Expiratory Flow [MMEF (FEF25-75)], Peak Expiratory Flow [PEF], and Controlled Mechanical Volume Ventilation [cMVV]. Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) was employed to analyze the relationship between stroboscopic and spirometric findings, additionally exploring correlations between the two. A backward method in regression analysis was used, with Edema (ED), Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD), Dry Laryngeal Mucosa (Sicca), and Tension (TE) serving as predictor variables against spirometric outcomes. Results: Predominantly, participants exhibited low levels of ED, GERD, Sicca, and TE. No substantial correlation emerged between ED, GERD, TE, and any spirometric indices (p-value > 0.05). However, a notable relationship was observed between Sicca and the MMEF index (p-value < 0.05). Regression analysis revealed significant outcomes for independent variables impacting VT and MEF25, with GERD negatively influencing VT in a statistically significant manner. Likewise, GERD's effect on the MEF25 variable was both negative and significant. Conclusion: This research offers critical insights into the impact of adverse training conditions and laryngeal disorders on respiratory function in cyclists. Addressing these concerns could facilitate considerable enhancements in their performance during training and competitive events.