Upper Airway Evaluation

An upper airway evaluation may be ordered by your healthcare provider in the case of breathing-related symptoms, such as Vocal Cord Dysfunction (VCD). Included in the exam is a detailed case history of the problem, followed by a laryngeal videostroboscopic examination to assess your vocal folds and upper airway. Either a rigid endoscope in your mouth or a small flexible fiberoptic scope passed through your nose is used to visualize the vocal folds. Both are painless and quick ways to assess the upper airway. This is video-recorded for the voice pathologist, physician, and you to review. You may be required to participate in activities that trigger your symptoms. By recording this information, your BBIVAR expert can check for signs of upper airway obstruction, VCD, and other disorders related to the breathing difficulty. For this test, please bring any prescribed inhalers, athletic shoes, and/or anything that may help trigger your symptoms in order for the clinician to evaluate your breathing problem.