Nonspecific chronic cough and paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder in pediatric patients
Sally J K Gallena1, Marie R Kerins
1Department of Speech-Language Pathology/Audiology, Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland, USA. sgallena@loyola.edu
Insights
Speech-language pathologists can now treat paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder and chronic cough. This article guides professionals on recognizing symptoms and implementing evidence-based treatments for these laryngeal conditions.
Area of Science:
- Laryngology
- Speech-Language Pathology
- Pediatric Healthcare
Background:
- Paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder (PVFMD) and nonspecific chronic cough are increasingly recognized laryngeal disorders.
- These conditions fall within the professional scope of speech-language pathologists (SLPs).
- Effective diagnosis and treatment are crucial for pediatric patients.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the signs and symptoms of PVFMD and chronic cough.
- To provide evidence-based treatment strategies for SLPs.
- To define the SLP's role in managing these laryngeal disorders.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on PVFMD and chronic cough.
- Discussion of diagnostic indicators for SLPs.
- Presentation of a treatment model for SLP intervention.
Main Results:
- SLPs are equipped to diagnose and manage PVFMD and chronic cough.
- Practical, evidence-based treatment approaches are available.
- These disorders, though low in incidence, are often rapidly remediated.
Conclusions:
- SLPs play a vital role in managing pediatric laryngeal disorders like PVFMD and chronic cough.
- An interdisciplinary team approach facilitates efficient and effective treatment.
- This model addresses service delivery challenges for school-based SLPs.
Abstract:
Paradoxical vocal fold motion disorder and nonspecific chronic cough are laryngeal disorders that are newly identified within the speech-language pathologist's scope of practice. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of these disorders and providing practical and evidenced-based treatment is the focus of this article. Defining the role of the speech-language pathologist in treating these low incidence yet quickly remediated disorders provides the pediatric or school-based speech-language pathologist a unique service delivery challenge. A model that utilizes an interdisciplinary team to provide efficient and effective treatment outcomes is discussed.
Related Concept Videos
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease III: Chronic Bronchitis Features
Respiratory System Abnormal Finding II: Palpation and Auscultation
Palpation Findings
During a respiratory assessment, palpation can reveal several vital abnormalities:
Chronic Pharyngitis
Etiology
It often arises from persistent viral or bacterial infections affecting sinuses and tonsils.
Additional contributing factors include inadequate dental hygiene, mouth breathing, recurring tonsillitis, allergic rhinitis, laryngopharyngeal reflux, and exposure to smoke, chemicals, and other environmental pollutants. Allergic reactions to pollen, mold, and pet dander, chronic cough, excessive voice usage,...
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease IV: Clinical Manifestations
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease-III: Symptoms and Complications.
Symptoms of COPD can be classified as primary or systemic. Primary symptoms relate to reduced airflow, while systemic or extrapulmonary symptoms relate to COPD's broader impact on the body.
Primary Symptoms of COPD:
Larynx
Anatomy of the Larynx
The larynx consists of various components, including cartilage, muscles, and vocal cords. Its structure includes three large unpaired cartilages—the thyroid, cricoid, and epiglottis—and three smaller paired cartilages—the arytenoids, corniculates, and...

