User:Mr. Ibrahem/Laryngospasm

Laryngospasm is a partial or complete closure of the vocal cords which is prolonged and results in a decreased ability to breath. Symptoms may include stridor, an increased effort to breath, or tracheal tug. While it typically lasts less 2 minutes, it can be more prolonged. Complications can include low oxygen, slow heart rate, pulmonary edema, and cardiac arrest.

It is a normal airway reflex that helps prevents foreign material from entering the lungs. While it most commonly occurs due to laryngopharyngeal reflux, it may also occur as a complication of anesthesia. Risk factors include airway irritation, history of asthma, certain medications, and smoking. Diagnosis is based on symptoms.

Treatment may involve a jaw thrust, providing positive pressure ventilation, and suctioning the back of the throat. Applying pressure in the laryngospasm notch (behind the earlobe) may also be useful. If this is not effective propofol or succinylcholine may be used.

It occurs in about 1% of people undergoing general anesthesia, though occurs more frequently in children and may occur in up to 25% of certain cases. Some people have frequent episodes. In drowning, laryngospasm may reduce the amount of water that enters the persons lungs; this is temporary in 90%.