Laryngospasm refers to a sudden spasm of the vocal cords. Laryngospasms are often a symptom of an underlying condition. Sometimes they can happen as a result of anxiety or stress. They can also occur as a symptom of asthma, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), or vocal cord dysfunction.

What triggers laryngospasm?

Laryngospasm may be associated with different triggers, such as asthma, allergies, exercise, irritants (smoke, dust, fumes), stress, anxiety or commonly gastroesophageal reflux disease, or GERD.

Can laryngospasm cause death?

Laryngospasm is defined as glottic closure caused by reflex constriction of the intrinsic laryngeal muscles. If not treated quickly laryngospasm makes ventilation of a patient's lungs difficult and can lead to hypercarbia, hypoxia, cardiac collapse, and death.