Upper airway disorders

Upper airway disorders involve conditions that affect the nasal passages, pharynx, larynx, and trachea, often leading to obstruction, impaired airflow, or abnormal breathing patterns. Common examples include laryngomalacia, vocal cord paralysis, obstructive sleep apnea, epiglottitis, and airway tumors. These conditions can present with a variety of symptoms, including noisy breathing (stridor), difficulty breathing, chronic cough, voice changes, swallowing difficulties, and recurrent respiratory infections. The severity of symptoms depends on the degree of airway obstruction, underlying pathology, and patient age, with infants and elderly patients at higher risk for complications.

Evaluation of upper airway disorders involves detailed clinical examination, endoscopic visualization, and imaging studies such as CT or MRI when structural anomalies are suspected. Pulmonary function testing may help quantify the extent of airflow limitation. Management strategies are tailored to the specific disorder and its severity. Mild cases may be monitored with supportive care and lifestyle modifications, while more severe conditions require medical or surgical interventions, such as airway dilation, stenting, or reconstructive procedures. Multidisciplinary care, including otolaryngologists, pulmonologists, and speech therapists, ensures optimal management. In addition to acute treatment, long-term follow-up focuses on preventing recurrent airway compromise, optimizing respiratory function, and addressing underlying risk factors. Effective management of upper airway disorders promotes safer breathing, reduces complications, and improves overall quality of life for affected individuals.