A speech therapy treatment protocol for exercise induced laryngeal obstruction

Area of Science:

• Laryngology
• Speech-Language Pathology
• Sports Medicine

Background:

• Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) affects 5%-7% of young individuals, causing exertional breathing difficulties.
• EILO results from paradoxical inspiratory adduction of laryngeal structures, diagnosed via laryngoscopy during high-intensity exercise.
• Current EILO treatments lack randomized controlled trials (RCTs), hindering evidence-based guideline development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of a structured speech therapy approach for EILO.
• To provide evidence-based treatment recommendations for EILO management.
• To contribute knowledge prioritized by respiratory and laryngological societies.

Main Methods:

• A prospective RCT (HelpILO) involving patients diagnosed with EILO.
• Patients are randomized into four treatment arms, with speech therapy in two.
• Interventions include structured speech therapy based on abdominal breathing principles.
• The primary outcome is the change in laryngoscopically visualized laryngeal adduction during peak exercise.

Main Results:

• The study protocol for the HelpILO trial is described.
• Speech therapy is a key component in two of the four treatment arms.
• The primary outcome measure assesses laryngeal adduction changes post-intervention.

Conclusions:

• The HelpILO study addresses the need for RCTs on speech therapy for EILO.
• Findings will inform clinical practice and research in EILO management.
• Results will be disseminated through publications, conferences, and media platforms.