Hi Cathy,Since I was the other person who sent you that website, having dealt with my own VCD (vocal cord dysfunction) case for almost two years, seems you are having to sort through a large array of new physical symptoms all at the same time in a very short period.
The breathing issues can be terrifying and should probably be your first priority. Try to see a skilled pulmonologist as soon as you can. And, take the "nationaljewish" Medfacts website print-out with you. After over 18 months of trying to figure out why I couldn't breathe, it was that website that finally convinced my doctor that I had VCD. I'd been to him numerous times and he didn't have a clue as to why I was having such severe episodic respiratory attacks.
Request a PFT (Pulmonary Function Test). That test can usually determine if you really have asthma. Asthma and VCD are not the same disorder, but look very similar during attacks. In addition, inhalers don't help VCD, since they are different respiratory disorders. The meds in inhalers act on a different part of the respiratory anatomy. During a PFT, they test the differences in your breathing, before and after using the inhaler. If the inhaler helps you breathe (do better on a PFT), then asthma is a possibility. It didn't help my condition. Everything was the same, thus asthma was ruled out. In addition, if you just now got it (with all those other symptoms), asthma is less likely.
You have mentioned "triggers" though. Talking on the phone. Various triggers for VCD attacks could be talking, laughing, exercise, strong toxic odors, etc. The last time I walked into a restaurant of several people with strong perfume, the coughing/choking attack was so bad that my friend called 911. I couldn't breathe/talk well enough to tell her what was going on. Good reason for a Medic Alert bracelet.
The attack only lasted about 10 minutes, but (as you say) it does wear you out; and, because VCD is clearly related to the larynx, talking is even more labored for awhile afterwards.
From what you say, you're dealing with so many new symptoms that it must be confusing to sort them all out. I hope you find medical specialists who are trained and experienced in dystonia and voice and respiratory conditions. Hopefully you can find a well-rounded, skilled neurologist and specialist team in your geographical area. Don't just go to a garden-variety "anyone." You need people (a team) who can help you figure out why all of these symptoms are happening at the same time.
You've come to the right place for support and information so let us know how we on the BB can further help you. Best wishes on the search for competent specialists.
--Lynne (AD/SD; VCD; Northern California)
