laryngospasm
/ləˈrɪŋɡoʊˌspæzəm/
noun
- A sudden, involuntary contraction of the muscles in the larynx (voice box) that narrows or closes the airway, making it difficult to breathe or speak.
- The swimmer experienced a laryngospasm after swallowing water, causing a moment of panic.
- She learned breathing exercises to help relax her throat if a laryngospasm occurs.
- Doctors say that a laryngospasm can sometimes happen during anesthesia or severe acid reflux.