Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO) is a condition in which the larynx contracts during physical activity, causing difficulty in breathing, wheezing or wheezing sounds during inhalation. This can be confused with asthma, but the treatment is different.

Causes of paradoxical vocal cord mobility

Causes of this condition can be misuse of the voice (screaming or pronounced coughing), heavy physical activity, reflux disease, mental or due to neurological disease.

How is EILO diagnosed?

Paradoxical vocal cord mobility (EILO) is a difficult diagnosis to make. A thorough mapping of the symptoms may arouse suspicion of the condition.

In order to confirm or deny the diagnosis, an examination by an ear, nose and throat specialist is required, as well as a stress test performed on a treadmill, where the movement of the vocal cords is continuously monitored with a camera in the throat.

 

Treatment of paradoxical vocal cord mobility

To treat the condition, use breathing techniques, treatment with a speech therapist and adapted training load. It is also a great help for many to get information and guidance to understand what EILO is all about. In some cases, surgical removal of excess tissue in the upper part of the throat may be necessary, especially if there is a narrowing above the vocal cord level. This operation is called supraglottoplasty and is offered at our department at Lysaker.

We can assist with the investigation of EILO

Book an appointment with our ear, nose and throat specialists at Lysaker for this via contact form or call us at 63796633 if you want more information.

If you need speech therapy, we can refer you to professionals we work with.

If you have already been diagnosed with EILO via e.g. a CLE test at a hospital, and would like to be assessed for surgery with us, please contact us by phone so that our laryngologist Dr. Magnus Hilland can assess your case.