Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction (EILO), also called vocal cord dysfunction or paradoxical vocal fold motion, is a condition in which the vocal cords or surrounding structures narrow or close during periods of high-intensity exercise, preventing proper respiration. Athletes often report the feeling of their throat closing and being “unable to get air in.” This can be a terrifying and frustrating experience. While EILO is often misdiagnosed as exercise-induced asthma, it does not typically respond to medications or the use of an inhaler. It is most common among adolescent and young adult athletes, particularly among female and elite athletes. The cause EILO is often multifactorial, and common contributors include physiological factors such as poor breathing mechanics, environmental triggers, medical comorbidities, and nervous system factors such as stress and performance anxiety.
The good news? EILO can be treated. If you are an athlete or know an athlete who is struggling with EILO, FLO2 is here to help! FLO2 helps athletes retrain their breathing pattern, improve their airway control, identify triggers, and reduce symptoms through individualized coaching. Our approach empowers our clients to breathe efficiently under stress and return to sport with confidence.
