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Laryngospasm

Description

Laryngospasm is a disorder of the throat that prevents patients from catching their breath. Episodes can occur suddenly but are most common when eating and talking at the same time. They generally last between 30 and 60 seconds, and almost completely make the sufferer unable to breath in though he or she can still exhale. Some patients will wake up unable to breath.

Diagnosis

Patients complain of having sudden episodes when they are unable to breath. They are unable to breath in but have little trouble still breathing out. Attempts to breath in faster make the disorder worse.

Treatment

Light sufferers will be prescribed medication that eliminates the tickling sensation which triggers the episodes. More serious cases require surgery.

Source: Adapted from International Classification of Sleep Disorders Diagnostic & Coding Manual, American Academy of Sleep Medicine.