Laryngospasm is mainly characterized by respiratory obstruction, tracheal dragging, and contradictory thoracic and abdominal movements, and the treatment mainly includes removing the irritating factors that cause laryngospasm, high-concentration oxygen intake, application of drugs, and tracheal intubation.
Laryngospasm refers to the reflex spasmodic contraction of laryngeal muscles, which causes the vocal cords to retract inwardly and the vocal folds to partially or completely close and leads to different degrees of respiratory distress or even complete airway obstruction in the patient. The main clinical manifestations are inspiratory laryngeal tinnitus and respiratory obstruction; increased inspiratory effort and tracheal dragging; contradictory thoracic and abdominal movements, with the thorax and abdomen moving in opposite directions during inspiration.
Mild laryngospasm can be relieved by high levels of oxygen, use of a ventilator, and application of drugs such as propofol. Severe laryngospasm is treated by removing the irritant causing the laryngospasm, continuous use of a ventilator, inhalation of highly concentrated oxygen, intravenous succinylcholine, and preparation for tracheal intubation. Laryngospasm should also be managed by closely monitoring the patient’s condition to rule out pulmonary aspiration and postobstructive pulmonary edema.
In the event of laryngospasm it is important to actively seek medical attention for prompt medication and management by a specialist.