Exercise-Induced Laryngeal Obstruction.Otolaryngol Clin North Am 2026 May 20. [Online ahead of print]OC
Exercise-induced laryngeal obstruction is a multifactorial disorder involving reversible laryngeal narrowing during exercise, influenced by developmental, physiologic, psychological, and sport-specific factors. A high index of suspicion in youth with exertional dyspnea is needed, as clinical history most strongly supports the diagnosis along with pulmonary evaluation and laryngoscopy to rule out alternative or comorbid pathology. Management is multidisciplinary, with growing evidence for behavioral and physiologic interventions-including laryngeal control therapy and respiratory retraining-alongside cognitive-behavioral strategies targeting anxiety, stress, and performance demands. Collaborative care among otolaryngology, pulmonology, behavioral health, and athletic staff optimizes outcomes and supports safe return to sport.
