Involuntary spasm of the vocal cords causing partial or complete closure of the larynx, resulting in difficulty breathing or inability to breathe. It can be triggered by irritation, anesthesia, or severe allergic reactions.
From Greek 'larynx' meaning 'voice box' and 'spasmos' meaning 'sudden contraction.' The term describes the emergency situation when the vocal cords clamp shut, blocking the airway at its narrowest point.
Laryngospasm is like having your vocal cords slam shut like a trap door - it's your body's most dramatic way of protecting the lungs from irritants, but it can quickly become life-threatening! Unlike bronchospasm which narrows airways, laryngospasm can completely seal them off at the entrance.
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